An Integrated Treatment Of Basil Oil (Ocimum Basilicum) And Alum With Modified Atmosphere To Control Crown Rot Disease In Embul Banana

K Abeywickrama 1*, C Wijerathna 1, H Herath1 and KH Sarananada 2

1 Department of Botany, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

2 Food Research Unit, Gannoruwa, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

Abstrsact

A study was undertaken with the objective of developing environmental friendly integrated treatment strategies for controlling crown rot disease in Embul banana. The fungicidal potential of 1% alum (sodium aluminium sulphate) was observed in vitro. Findings indicate that alum+basil oil (0.16% or 0.20% v/v) treated 80, 85, 90 day mature Embul banana fruits were relatively free from crown rot dis-ease after subjecting to modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and storage at optimum temperature. Crown rot disease severity of 85-day mature and vacuum packed 1% alum (w/v) washed banana was lower and comparable to carbendazim (bavistin) treatment. After ripening, there was no significant difference in physico-chemical properties (titratable acidity, total soluble solids, pH, fruit firmness) of all treated fruits compared to the control. Sensory properties were slightly affected as compared to un-treated fruits. MAP and vaccum packaging in combination with alum and/ or basil oil spray treatments at 12-140C could extend the storage life of Embul banana upto 32 days which could be recommended for sea shipment.

Key words: Crown rot, Embul banana, Essential oils, Post harvest disease control

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* - Corresponding Author

Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Mapalana, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka

Copyright © 2007 by the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna

Print ISSN 1391-3646 Online ISSN 2386-1533