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idMicrobe: Tool to recognize plant diseases and consult home treatments

The Guide to Caring for Your Plants

Learn to recognize pests and how to combat them

Botrytis in fruit: symptoms, prevention and treatment

Botrytis or gray mold

Botrytis cinerea

Pathogen:

Type:

Fungus

Risk:

HIGH

Botrytis in fruit: symptoms, prevention and treatment

Frutos

Botrytis

Botrytis: Symptoms, damage and solutions in fruit
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WHO CAUSES IT?

Botrytis cinerea is a widespread phytopathogenic fungus and one of the main agents responsible for rot in numerous crops. It is a necrotrophic fungus, capable of colonizing living plant tissues and obtaining nutrients as it causes the death of infected cells. It can develop on a wide variety of plant debris and plant organs, where it produces abundant mycelium and reproductive structures. Dispersal occurs primarily through conidia, which are produced in large quantities on affected tissues and can be transported by air currents, water splashes, rain, tools, insects, and tissue contact. Conidia can remain on plant surfaces until they find favorable conditions for germination. Germination and subsequent infection are especially favored by the presence of free water or very high ambient humidity and moderate temperatures. Penetration can occur directly through susceptible tissues, but wounds, cuts, abrasions, insect damage, and weakened tissues constitute important entry points. Once infection begins, the fungus develops hyphae that spread through the tissues, progressively destroying plant cells and causing necrotic and subsequently rotten areas. On infected tissues, it can produce new conidiophores and conidia, generating a continuous source of inoculum capable of colonizing other plant organs. Botrytis cinerea can also survive unfavorable periods through resistant structures, especially sclerotia, and through mycelium present in infected plant debris. Crop debris, affected fruit, and dead tissue can act as important reservoirs of the fungus between growing seasons. The disease can develop rapidly when moderate temperatures, high humidity, poor ventilation, and prolonged water exposure on the tissues coincide. Therefore, removing infected tissues, reducing humidity, and preventing wounds are essential to limiting the production and spread of inoculum.

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SYMPTOMS

Botrytis, or gray mold, causes progressive degradation of fruit, which can begin in small wounds, weakened areas, or points of contact between fruits. Initially, water-soaked spots or discolored areas may appear, later turning brown or grayish. As the infection progresses, the tissues soften, lose their firmness, and rot develops, which can spread rapidly throughout the fruit. Under high humidity conditions, a characteristic mass of gray mycelium and sporulation appears on the affected areas, responsible for the gray mold appearance. The fruit can become completely spoiled and lose its commercial value. The disease can develop both before and after harvest, being especially problematic during transport and storage, where an infected fruit can contaminate other nearby fruit. Wounds caused during harvesting, handling, or transport considerably increase the risk of infection and spread of the disease. Among the most common manifestations are:

• Appearance of small, water-soaked or translucent spots.

• Appearance of small, water-soaked or translucent spots. • Formation of brown or tan lesions that progressively increase in size.

• Softening and loss of firmness of the fruit tissues.

• Development of progressive wet rot.

• Appearance of white or grayish mycelium on the affected areas.

• Formation of a characteristic gray sporulation mass on the fruit surface.

• Rapid spread of the rot to nearby tissues.

• Collapse and complete deterioration of the fruit in advanced infections.

• Appearance of mummified or dehydrated fruit when environmental conditions become unfavorable for active development.

• Contamination of healthy fruit in direct contact with affected fruit.

• Development of infections during transport and storage.

• Significant reduction in fruit quality and shelf life.

• Appearance of secondary rots associated with wounds and damaged tissues.

Damage caused by botrytis in fruit
Botrytis in fruit: How to recognize and treat it effectively
Fruit affected by Botrytis with rot and gray mold
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TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY

15-25 °C

90-100 %

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TRANSMISSION ROUTES

Airborne conidia, Rain, Irrigation water, Water splashes, Insects, Contact between fruits, Contact between plant tissues, Contaminated tools, Infected plant debris, Infected plant material

Do you want to remove this disease? Choose how you want to treat it.

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TREATMENTS

Chemical treatments

• AZOXISTROBIN 25% [SC] P/V
• CAPTAN 47.5% [SC] P/V
• CIPRODINIL 37.5% + FLUDIOXONIL 25% [WG] P/P
• PHENHEXAMIDE 50% [SC] P/V
• PHENHEXAMIDE 50% [WG] P/P
• FOLPET 50% [SC] P/V
• FOLPET 80% [WG] P/P
• POTASSIUM HYDROGEN CARBONATE 0.425% [AL] P/V
• POTASSIUM HYDROGEN CARBONATE 85% [SP] P/P
• LAMINARIN 4.5% [SL] P/S
• COPPER OXYCHLORIDE 35% (exp. in Cu) [WG] P/P
• COPPER OXYCHLORIDE 35% (EXPR. IN CU) [WG] P/P
• PIRACLOSTROBIN 6.7% + BOSCALIDE 26.7% ( ) [WG] P/P
• PIRACLOSTROBIN 6.7% + BOSCALIDE 26.7% (I) [WG] P/P

Authorized treatments in organic farming

• POTASSIUM HYDROGEN CARBONATE 0.425% [AL] P/V
• POTASSIUM HYDROGEN CARBONATE 85% [SP] P/P
• LAMINARIN 4.5% [SL] P/S
• COPPER OXYCHLORIDE 35% (exp. in Cu) [WG] P/P
• COPPER OXYCHLORIDE 35% (EXPR. IN CU) [WG] P/P

Biological control

• BACILLUS AMYLOLIQUEFACIENS subsp. plantarum (strain D747) 5% [SC] P/V
• BACILLUS SUBTILIS (strain IAB/BS03) (1 x 10E8 cfu/ml) 10 g/l [SL] P/V
• BACILLUS SUBTILIS (STRAIN QST 713) 1.34% [SC] P/V
• CLONOSTACHYS ROSEA CEPA J1446 (GLIOCLADIUM CATENULATUM (CEPA J1446)) (1 x 10E 9 cfu/g) 900 g/kg [WG] P/P
• GLIOCLADIUM CATENULATUM (STRAIN J1446) 32% (2 X 10E8 CFU/G) [WP] P/P
• PYTHIUM OLIGANDRUM (strain M1) 17.5% [WP] P/P

Recommendations

• Remove and dispose of affected fruit as soon as possible to reduce sources of inoculum within the crop.

• Remove dead or infected plant debris that may promote the survival and multiplication of the fungus.

• Avoid excessive humidity and improve ventilation of the vegetation to reduce the time the fruit remains wet.

• Avoid sprinkler irrigation when it may prolong the presence of water on the fruit.

• Irrigate preferably at times that allow for rapid drying of the vegetation.

• Avoid wounds and damage during cultivation, harvesting, and handling of the fruit.

• Control pests that may cause wounds on the fruit and facilitate the entry of the fungus.

• Maintain adequate spacing and ventilation between fruits when growing conditions allow.

• Periodically inspect the fruit to detect the first lesions and quickly remove affected specimens.

• Handle the fruit carefully during harvesting to avoid bruising, cuts, and abrasions. • Keep tools, containers, and surfaces used during harvesting and handling clean.

• Avoid storing damaged, wet, or infected fruit for extended periods.

• Maintain adequate ventilation and humidity during storage and transport.

• Apply authorized fungicides when there is a high risk of infection, especially during periods favorable for fungal development.

• Alternate fungicides with different modes of action when repeated treatments are necessary, avoiding the continuous use of products belonging to the same group.

• Respect the doses, intervals, and maximum number of applications established on the label of plant protection products.

• Combine chemical treatments with cultural and sanitary measures to reduce disease pressure and decrease dependence on fungicides.

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Light traps for insects

Light traps for insects

Solar trap for outside

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Effective against all types of fungi

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Anti-ant adhesive tape

Anti-ant adhesive tape

Tree protection. Easy to use.

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Adhesive traps for insects

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For orchards, terraces and flower pots.

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Insecticide, fungicide, acaricide and nematicide spraying

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Lime for whitewashing

Lime for whitewashing

Insect Barrier/Repellent

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Fungus Gnat Killer & Bug Spray

Fungus Gnat Killer & Bug Spray

For outdoor and indoor use. Pet friendly

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Mature compost. Worm castings

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100% organic diatomaceous earth

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Natural insecticide against insects

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Beetle traps

Beetle traps

Ideal for ornamentals, flowers and shrubs.

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Trap for Tuta absoluta

Trap for Tuta absoluta

Attracts and traps tomato moths

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Snail and slug traps

Snail and slug traps

Ideal for orchards, gardens and pots.

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Copper-based fungicide - Curative and preventive

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Effective against all types of fungi

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*Recommended treatments are still recommendations according to authority databases and in no way replace the guidelines established according to the legislation of each country.

*Products shown are recommendations and not our own products. As Amazon Associates, we earn revenue from purchases of recommended products.

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TREATMENTS

Homemade remedies

BONE MEAL OR GROUND FISH SHELLS

RUSTY NAILS OR IRON SHAVINGS

BANANA PEELS

EPSOM SALTS (MAGNESIUM SULFATE)

SOLUTION WITH HOUSEHOLD BORAX

GROUND OR BOILED EGGSHELLS

COMPOST WITH ONION OR GARLIC SCRAPS

VEGETABLE COOKING WATER

WOOD ASH

WATER WITH VINEGAR OR LEMON (VERY DILUTED)

GARLIC INFUSION

USED COFFEE OR TEA

BANANA AND EGGSHELL INFUSION

POTATO OR LEGUME COOKING WATER

COMPOST FROM FRESH GREEN LEAVES

COMPOST OR WELL-AGED MANURE

DILUTED MILK (1:10)

BANANA TEA

LEAF COMPOST

NETTLE SLURRY

POTASSIUM SOAP AND NEEM OIL SOLUTION

POTASSIUM SOAP SOLUTION + NEEM OIL + DIATOMACEOUS EARTH

BAKING SODA AND NEUTRAL SOAP SOLUTION

GARLIC INFUSION WITH NEUTRAL SOAP

CHROMATIC OR ADHESIVE TRAPS

DILUTED MILK

HORSETAIL INFUSION

TRUNK WHITEWASHING

DIATOMACEOUS EARTH

WOOD ASH

NETTLE SLURRY

CUT THE AFFECTED BRANCHES AND APPLY CINNAMON

GARLIC AND CINNAMON INFUSION

INFUSION OF WORMWOOD, CHILI OR CHILLI

CLEAN THE AFFECTED AREA AND APPLY ASH PASTE WITH GARLIC OR CINNAMON

GARLIC AND MINT INFUSION

LIGHT TRAPS

APPLY CINNAMON POWDER

PITFALL TRAPS

CRUSHED EGG SHELLS

CLEAN AND SEAL THE WOUND WITH CLAY, CINNAMON AND GARLIC PASTE

GARLIC INFUSION

MATURE COMPOST

TRAPS WITH VINEGAR AND SOAP

SEAL HOLES WITH ASH PASTE AND CRUSHED GARLIC

VINEGAR AND BAKING SODA SOLUTION

ANT TRAP

TAPE TRAP

PHEROMONE TRAP

ALCOHOL TRAPS

FUNNEL TRAP

There are no home treatments

Natural allies

PREDATORY MITES

LADYBUGS

LACEWINGS

PARASITIC WASPS

HOVERFLIES OR PARASITIC FLIES

PREDATORY BUGS

There are no natural allies

Mycodiplosis oidii (predatory mosquito)

Chemical treatments

AGRICULTURAL SULFUR (POWDER OR SOLUBLE)

POTASSIUM FERTILIZERS

MAGNESIUM FERTILIZERS

BORON FERTILIZERS

CALCIUM FERTILIZERS

NITROGEN FERTILIZERS

PHOSPHORUS FERTILIZERS

IRON FERTILIZERS

SULFUR FERTILIZERS

NPK FERTILIZERS

There are no treatments for this disease. Treatments are directed at the insect vectors that transmit it. See insect treatments.

ABAMECTIN 0.0015% + PYRETHRINS 0.02%

RAPESEAL OIL

RAPESEAL OIL + PYRETHRINS

ORANGE OIL 6%

PARAFFIN OIL

ACETAMIPRID

ACETAMIPRID 0.005%

ACETAMIPRID 20%

SULFUR

COPPER 20%

COPPER 25%

COPPER 35%

COPPER 38%

COPPER 50%

COPPER 52%

DELTAMETHRIN 1.57%

DELTAMETHRIN 10%

DELTAMETHRIN 2.5%

DIFENOCONAZOLE 1.67%

ESFENVALERATE 2.5%

ESFENVALERATE 5%

100% GARLIC EXTRACT

PHENHEXAMIDE 50%

FLUPYRADIFURONE

FLUPIRADIFURONE 20%

FOSETIL-AL 80%

FERRIC PHOSPHATE

ALUMINUM PHOSPHIDE 56%

PHOSTIAZATE 10%

PHOSTIAZATE 15%

HEXITIAZOX 10%

POTASSIUM HYDROGEN CARBONATE

LAMBDA CYHALOTHRIN

LAMINARIN 4.5%

METALDEHYDE

PIRACLOSTROBIN 6.7% + BOSCALIDE 26.7%

PYRETHRINS

PYRIPROXIFEN 10%

POTASSIUM SALTS OF UNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS

SPINOSAD 0.024%

SPINOSAD 12%

SPINOSAD 48%

TAU-FLUVALINATE 24%

TETRACONAZOLE 10%

TETRACONAZOLE 12.5%

TETRACONAZOLE 4%

TRICHODERMA ASPERELLUM (STRAIN T34)

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RECOMMENDATIONS

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REPELLENT PLANTS

EFFECTIVE PRODUCTS TO ELIMINATE THIS DISEASE

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Home treatment. Eco-friendly

Insecticidal soap

Home treatment. Eco-friendly

Sponsored link

Eco-friendly. Respectful of animals, the environment, and people.

Bacillus Thuringiensis BT Organic Worm & Caterpillar Control

Eco-friendly. Respectful of animals, the environment, and people.

Sponsored link

Non-Toxic. Reusable. For indoor and outside

Fruit fly traps

Non-Toxic. Reusable. For indoor and outside

Sponsored link

Granulated bait, attractive, safe and fast.

Treatment against snails and slugs

Granulated bait, attractive, safe and fast.

Sponsored link

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Your products closer to your customers

Your product

Your products closer to your customers

Sponsored link

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100% ecological fungicide

Natural Pesticide, Fungicide, Miticide, Insecticide, Spider Mites, Powdery Mildew, Botrytis and Mold

100% ecological fungicide

Sponsored link

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Nematodes - Biological Pest Control for Fungus Gnats, Thrips, & Whiteflies

Biological Pest Control for Fungus Gnats, Thrips, & Whiteflies

Sponsored link

Solar trap for outside

Light traps for insects

Solar trap for outside

Sponsored link

Sponsored link

Effective against all types of fungi

Effective against all types of fungi

Sponsored link

Tree protection. Easy to use.

Anti-ant adhesive tape

Tree protection. Easy to use.

Sponsored link

Your products closer to your customers

Your product

Your products closer to your customers

Sponsored link

Sponsored link

For orchards, terraces and flower pots.

Adhesive traps for insects

For orchards, terraces and flower pots.

Sponsored link

100% organic. For indoor and outdoor use

Insecticide, fungicide, acaricide and nematicide spraying

100% organic. For indoor and outdoor use

Sponsored link

Insect Barrier/Repellent

Lime for whitewashing

Insect Barrier/Repellent

Sponsored link

For outdoor and indoor use. Pet friendly

Fungus Gnat Killer & Bug Spray

For outdoor and indoor use. Pet friendly

Sponsored link

Sponsored link

Sponsored link

100% Natural. Soil Restorative

Mature compost. Worm castings

100% Natural. Soil Restorative

Sponsored link

Your products closer to your customers

Your product

Your products closer to your customers

Sponsored link

Sponsored link

Natural insecticide against insects

100% organic diatomaceous earth

Natural insecticide against insects

Sponsored link

Ideal for ornamentals, flowers and shrubs.

Beetle traps

Ideal for ornamentals, flowers and shrubs.

Sponsored link

Attracts and traps tomato moths

Trap for Tuta absoluta

Attracts and traps tomato moths

Sponsored link

Ideal for orchards, gardens and pots.

Snail and slug traps

Ideal for orchards, gardens and pots.

Sponsored link

Effective against all types of fungi

Copper-based fungicide - Curative and preventive

Effective against all types of fungi

Sponsored link

*Recommended treatments are still recommendations according to authority databases and in no way replace the guidelines established according to the legislation of each country.

*Products shown are recommendations and not our own products. As Amazon Associates, we earn revenue from purchases of recommended products.

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OTHER PESTS

Fruit with symptoms of calcium deficiency and developmental abnormalities

Calcium deficiency or blossom-end rot

Fruit affected by water stress with symptoms of dehydration and cracking

Water stress

Fruit affected by weevils with holes and surface damage

Weevils

Fruit affected by waterlogging with soft areas and rot

Watery fruits

Fruit affected by bacterial disease with spots and lesions on the surface

Bacterial infection

Fruit affected by fungi with spots, rot and mold

Mycosis

Fruit with symptoms of boron deficiency and developmental deformities

Boron Deficiency

Fruit with sunburn and areas damaged by excessive sun exposure

Excessive sun

Fruit damaged by snails and slugs with bites and eroded areas

Snails and/or slugs

Fruit affected by powdery mildew with spots and presence of white powder

Powdery mildew

Fruit affected by downy mildew with spots and damaged areas

Mildew

Fruit affected by Alternaria with dark spots and areas of rot

Alternaria

Fruit with symptoms of potassium deficiency and ripening disorders

Potassium Deficiency

Fruit affected by monilia with brown spots and rot

Moniliosis or brown rot

Fruit affected by Botrytis with rot and gray mold

Botrytis or gray mold

Fruit affected by bed bugs with bites and spots on the surface

Bed bugs

Fruit damaged by beetles with holes and bites on the surface

Beetles

Fruit affected by anthracnose with dark spots and sunken lesions

Anthracnose

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