Effect of a plastic rain shield on fruit cracking and cherry diseases in Greek orchards.

Abstract: The use of plastic rain shields is a very effective method to control fruit cracking in cherry trees. In this study, the effect of plastic rain shields on fruit cracking and fruit decay was investigated in different sweet cherry cultivars. The results showed that the percentage of fruit cracking and fruit decay was significant higher in uncovered than covered cherry trees. Fungi of the genus Monilinia were the main pathogens causing fruit decay in cherry fruits. In fruit with symptoms of cracking, fungi of the genus Alternaria predominated. Finally, the effect of plastic rain shield on the development of the disease Shot Hole (Wilsonomyces carpophilus) was examined. In most of cases, the percentage of the Shot Hole disease was higher in covered than uncovered cherry trees. Differences were found among cultivars. Generally, the use of plastic rain shields is a very effective method to control fruit cracking and fruit decay on cherry trees, but they should be removed during dry periods to reduce the risk of developing of Shot Hole. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]