The in vivo impact of pomegranate peel application, individually or in combination, on plant pathogenic fungi

Abstract

Due to substantial legal and regulatory constraints, as well as the hazards they pose to human health and the environment, the use of synthetic pesticides to control plant diseases is rapidly declining. Furthermore, the increasing need for alternative crop protection techniques is being driven by disease strains that have developed resistance. Being a source of bioactive molecules, natural compounds may offer a more consumer- and environmentally friendly alternative to pesticides by reducing their application. We attempt to present a number of scientific studies in this Opinion piece that show how pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peel (PP) can prevent and manage a number of diseases that affect significant pre- and post-harvest crops, both when used alone and in combination.