Plant innate immunity in strawberry induced by pathogen-associated molecular pattern harpin and acibenzolar-S-methyl

Gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea is an important disease in strawberries. This fungus causes significant economic losses since it attacks plants and fruits. In this context, this work aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) and Harpin protein in pre- and post-harvest as inducers of resistance in strawberries to B. cinerea. Strawberry plants (Fragaria x ananassa) from ‘Aromas’ and ‘Camarosa’ cultivars were grown in greenhouse and evaluated in laboratory. Doses of Harpin and ASM in pre- and post-harvest applications were assessed. Yield parameters of strawberry, B. cinerea incidence and injured area in fruit, fruit firmness, CO2 assimilation rate, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity were analyzed. Elicitors application in pre- and post-harvest conditions promoted a decrease of B. cinerea incidence and injured area in strawberry fruits. The results suggest that Harpin and ASM treatment show a significant impact on strawberry fruit disease. The control may be associated with the PAL induction, responsible for inducing defense responses. Harpin and ASM represent a promising alternative to synthetic fungicides for B. cinerea control during post-harvest storage.