Field and postharvest application of microencapsulated Yamadazyma mexicana LPa14: anthracnose control and effect on postharvest quality in avocado (Persea americana Mill. cv. Hass)

BACKGROUND Anthracnose caused by species of Colletotrichum is the most important disease of avocado fruit. The quiescent infection develops in the field, hence, its control from the preharvest stage is necessary. The field application of microencapsulated Yamadazyma mexicana LPa14 could prevent the establishment of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and reduce the losses in avocado production. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of microencapsulated Y. mexicana applied in the field and postharvest for the anthracnose control in avocado, to evaluate the population dynamics of Y. mexicana in flowers and fruits and the effect of the yeast on the avocado quality. RESULTS The concentrations of microencapsulated Y. mexicana after field application ranged from 4.58 to 6.35 log CFU g−1. The population of microencapsulated yeast in flowers and fruits was always higher than treatments with fresh cells. Preharvest application of fresh and microencapsulated Y. mexicana significantly reduced the severity of anthracnose by 71–80% and 84–96%, respectively, in avocado fruits stored at 25 °C. Moreover, at 6 °C and ripening at 25 °C, the fresh yeast reduced the severity by 87–90% and the microencapsulated yeast by 91–93%. However, yeast treatments applied in the field + postharvest under cool conditions were more effective in reducing 100% of anthracnose. Treatments did not negatively affect the quality parameters of the avocado fruits. CONCLUSION Yamadazyma mexicana microencapsulated by electrospraying is a promising bioformulation for the management of anthracnose in avocados at preharvest and postharvest levels. Yamadazyma mexicana offers a new biological control solution for growers in avocado orchards. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. The bioformulation of Yamadazyma mexicana LPa14 can be considered a valuable alternative to replace chemical fungicides and prolong the postharvest shelf life of avocado fruits. Yamadazyma mexicana offers a new biological control solution for growers in avocado orchards.