A biological technology used to control gray mould in European strawberries has been rejigged for Australian cherries, with expectations the method could be used for other crops too such as almonds, grapes, raspberries, apples, pears and stonefruit.

Researchers from the University of Adelaide have repurposed a bee-delivery technology to prevent brown rot in cherry orchards, as part of a 'flying doctors' project funded by the Australian Government.

Not only does the technology show promise in an industry where governments are frequently tightening laws for chemicals, but it could also be a boon for bee populations which are currently in decline.

"All commercial cherry growers spray during flowering to control the later development of cherry brown rot. Instead of spraying fungicide, we’re using bees to deliver a biological control agent right to the flowers where it is needed. This uses an innovative delivery method called entomovectoring," says project leader and bee researcher Dr. Katja Hogendoorn.

The method involves sprinkling spores, which contain a parasitic fungus that prevents a brown rot-causing fungus from colonizing the flower, into a specifically designed dispenser fitted in front of the hive. The bees pick up the spores between their body hairs and bring them to the flowers.

Hogendoorn says the use of bees has many environmental and economic benefits compared to spraying fungicide.

"The bees deliver control on target, every day," she says.

"There is no spray drift or run-off into the environment, less use of heavy equipment, water, labour and fuel."

She adds the technique will also help bolster the honey be industry and the number of hives, while it could also help prepare Australia for the expected incursion of the Varroa mite which is causing damages for bee and horticultural industries the world over.

"Brown rot is caused by a fungus which significantly impacts the (AUD)$150 million (US$133 million) Australian cherry industry through costs of applying fungicide, yield loss and fruit spoilage," she says.

"The 'flying doctors' technology is used successfully in Europe to control strawberry grey mould, but it’s the first time for Australia and the first time in cherry orchards anywhere."

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