THE USE OF HYDROGEN-PEROXIDE TO CONTROL POSTHARVEST DECAY ON GALIA MELONS

Sanosil-25, a disinfectant containing 48% hydrogen peroxide and silver salts as stabilising agents, inhibited the mycelial growth of the two main decays causing fungi of melons, Alternaria alternata and Fusariu m solani in vitro at concentrations between 5000 and 10 000 mu l litre (-1). However, in in vivo experiments, Sanosil-25 markedly decreased d ecay at a concentration of 5000 mu l litre-l when incorporated into a wax treatment and produced no phytotoxic effect. This treatment may pr ovide an alternative to imazalil which, although more effective, gives problems with residue levels. A concentration of 10 000 mu l litre(-1 ) proved phytotoxic.