Eco-Friendly Strategies to Combat Botrytis cinerea in Strawberry: Biological Control Agents, Natural Compounds, and Innovative Approaches

Mohammed Radi^1,2, Mohammed Taoussi^1,2, Ikram Legrifi¹, Mohammed Khadiri¹, Hakima Achetoui^1,3, Sohaib Khatib⁴, Essaid Ait Barka⁵, Jamal Ibijbijen², Laila Nassiri², Rachid Lahlali^1,*
1 Department of Plant Protection, Phytopathology Unit, Ecole Nationale d’Agriculture de Meknes, Km10, Rte Haj Kaddour, BP S/40, Meknes, 50001, Morocco
2 Laboratory of Environment and Valorization of Microbial and Plant Resources, Faculty of Sciences, Moulay Ismail University, P.O. Box 11201, Zitoune, Meknes, Morocco
3 Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine (CEDoc, IAV), Plant Protection Department, Rabat, Morocco
4 Agrobiosciences Program, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University Mohammed VI Polytechnic, Lot 660, Hay Moulay Rachid, Ben-Guerir, 43150, Morocco
5 Induced Resistance and Plant Biosection Research Unit, EA 4707–UMR INRAE 1488, Reims Champagne-Ardenne University, Reims, 51687, France
* Corresponding Author: Rachid Lahlali. Email: email

Phyton-International Journal of Experimental Botany https://doi.org/10.32604/phyton.2026.087963

Received 25 June 2026; Accepted 21 August 2026; Published online 26 August 2026

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Abstract

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) production is severely constrained by gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea, a major pathogen responsible for significant pre- and postharvest losses worldwide. The increasing occurrence of fungicide-resistant populations and growing environmental concerns have intensified the search for sustainable disease management strategies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biology, epidemiology, and fungicide resistance of B. cinerea, with a particular focus on eco-friendly approaches for gray mold control in strawberry. It critically examines the effectiveness of cultural practices, biological control agents, including antagonistic bacteria, fungi and yeasts, as well as natural antifungal compounds such as botanical extracts and essential oils. In addition, recent advances in microbiome research, multi-omics technologies, nanotechnology, and formulation strategies are discussed as promising tools to improve the efficacy and reliability of biological control. Finally, the review points at the current challenges related to field performance, commercialization and regulatory approval, aiding the integration of these sustainable approaches within integrated disease management programs to reduce fungicide dependence and enhance the resilience of strawberry production systems.

Keywords

Strawberry; gray mold; biological control; natural compounds; sustainable management

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Eco-Friendly Strategies to Combat Botrytis cinerea in Strawberry: Biological Control Agents, Natural Compounds, and Innovative Approaches

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