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 concentration, both in vitro and in vivo. CO2 concentrations at 15-25%, provided a significant reduction in lesion size and, at 30%, completely prevented lesion formation at 25 degreesC. Low temperature also inhibited growth and pathogenicity of M. fructicola. The fungus was more sensitive to high CO2 concentrations at 0 degreesC. Fungal growth on PDA was completely suppressed 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 more 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 degreesC. 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 off-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.