Evaluation of the use of high CO2 concentrations and cold storage to control Monilinia fructicola on sweet cherries

Growth of Monilinia fructicola significantly declined with increased CO2 co ncentration, both in vitro and in vivo. CO2 concentrations at 15-25%, provi ded a significant reduction in lesion size and, at 30%, completely prevente d lesion formation at 25 degreesC. Low temperature also inhibited growth an d pathogenicity of M. fructicola. The fungus was more sensitive to high CO2 concentrations at 0 degreesC. Fungal growth on PDA was completely suppress ed and brown rot was not found in inoculation sites on fruits in 10-30% CO2 after 30 days at 0 degreesC. Low temperature reduced ethylene production m ore than elevated CO2. Fruit ethanol content increased with increasing CO2 concentration and reached 92.8 mul l(-1) in 30% CO2 after 18 days at 0 degr eesC. CO2 concentration of 25-30% did not affect SSC and pH, but increased firmness, vitamin C content and titratable acidity. No high CO2 injury or o ff-flavors were noted after 18 days at 0 degreesC for sweet cherries at any CO2 level tested. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.