New Natural Methods for Combating Mold Fungi in Agricultural Products- The Isparta Example

Abstract

Fungal infections are among the leading causes of food spoilage and diseases of agricultural plants worldwide. Molds are the most damaging group of fungi to agricultural plants and products. They alter the chemical composition of foods, making them harmful. They weaken photosynthetic activity in plants and damage the structure of tissues, rendering them unable to function. Isparta province is one of the leading agricultural provinces in Turkiye. It is the first city that comes to mind in the country for apple, pumpkin, cherry, and rose production. It is also a leader in the production of numerous products such as grapes, melons, and sour cherries. Molds that infest agricultural products and plants cause fungal diseases such as black spot, powdery mildew, and rust, which are problems that farmers cannot cope with. In 2025 year, as a solution to diseases caused by mold fungi, fungicidal/antifungal solutions were prepared in Isparta by grinding natural stones, diluting them with water, and using essential oils (rate 2-5%) during the plant's growth period. These solutions were sprayed onto apple, pumpkin, cucumber, melon, grape, and rose plants at specific intervals. The experiment yielded promising results in combating fungal diseases. According to these results, plant organs with soft tissues and acidic structures are more susceptible to fungal diseases. As humidity and temperature increase, the disease increases; insufficient air circulation increases infection. Claystone, sulfur stone, serpentine stone, and limestone are strong fungicides and disrupt the pest's habitat. Cedar, pine, and juniper tar; and the oily sap of lavender, thyme, and rosemary plants also kill mold fungi by burning their hyphae and mycelia. They should be applied to the plants after rainfall, covering the entire surface. Solutions prepared from antifungal rocks and solutions prepared from essential oils should be applied alternately. This method is more effective. No harm to the plant or its product has been observed with the new techniques; on the contrary, it has increased yield. The accuracy of our method has not been proven with analytical values. Our studies to address this deficiency are ongoing.