Effective biocontrol of grape diseases: assessing and improving efficacy

This chapter reviews the current literature to gather efficacy data on biocontrol in planta for the main diseases and analyzes them quantitatively. A meta-analysis of these data was carried out in selected cases (powdery mildew, trunk diseases, and certain species of Aspergillus producing ochratoxin A). Ways to improve the efficacy and consistency of the biocontrol is also discussed. The chapter concludes with a step-by-step outline, describing the steps required for the effective biocontrol of grape diseases. The pathogen stage for which biocontrol is required should firstly be defined, as well as the mechanism of action needed for the control. Next, suitable microorganisms should be defined based on their ability to thrive in the same environment as the pathogen, so that the BCA may grow when the pathogen grows.