Chitosan: The optimal solution for sustainable plant disease management in agriculture

Abstract

Chitosan, a natural polymer derived from chitin, has gained prominence as a sustainable solution for plant disease management in agriculture. Its unique properties, including biodegradability, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial activity, make it an ideal alternative to chemical pesticides. This review explores the mechanisms by which chitosan enhances plant defense, including its role as an elicitor of plant immune responses and its direct antimicrobial effects on pathogens. Recent studies highlight its applications in seed coating, foliar sprays, soil amendments, and post-harvest treatments. The environmental and economic benefits of chitosan, as well as the challenges and future prospects for its use, are also discussed. As research advances, chitosan is poised to play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture, offering eco-friendly and effective disease management solutions that reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals.