Essential Oils in the Control of Anthracnose on ‘Prata Ana’ Banana

Alternative forms of disease control in fruits have been researched in an attempt to minimize the negative effects of chemical control on men and environment. The aim of this study was to determine the best concentration of essential oils to control the development of Colletotrichum musae and anthracnose intensity in ‘Prata Anã’ banana. In order to inhibit germination, mycelial growth and sporulation, four essential oils of clove (Eugenia caryophyllus), tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) species were used at concentrations of 2, 4, 6 and 8 μL. In fruits, the same essential oils were applied at concentrations of 80, 160, 240 and 320 μL to evaluate the incidence and severity of anthracnose. Clove and thyme oils were the most efficient in inhibiting mycelial growth, germination and sporulation at all concentrations tested. The volatile compounds present in clove and thyme oils provide complete inhibition of fungal growth. Tea tree and ginger oils have the ability to suppress anthracnose in ‘Prata Anã’ banana. Concentrations of 160 μL of ginger oil, 160 and 240 μL of tea tree oil reduced the anthracnose severity in fruits. Ginger and tea tree essential oils have the potential to control banana anthracnose, reducing the anthracnose incidence in fruits by 48% and 24%, respectively.