Green Synthesis of Copper and Sulfur Nanoparticles and Their Effect on Erwinia amylovora

Abstract

Fire blight, caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, remains a persistent threat to apple and pear orchards worldwide, often leading to devastating crop losses. Conventional management strategies rely heavily on copper-based bactericides, which, despite their effectiveness, pose environmental risks and contribute to the emergence of resistant bacterial strains. In response to these challenges, this study explores the antibacterial potential of copper and sulfur nanoparticles synthesized via green methods using citrus and pomegranate peel extracts. These plant-derived nanoparticles were characterized for size and morphology and evaluated in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against Erwinia amylovora, with comparisons made to Bordeofix, a commercial copper-based pesticide. Results revealed that copper and sulfur nanoparticles achieved bacterial growth reductions of up to 90% and 85%, respectively, within 48 hours. Statistical analysis confirmed the significance of these findings, highlighting the enhanced efficacy of nanoparticle treatments compared to conventional Bordeofix approaches. This work underscores the promise of green-synthesized nanoparticles as sustainable tools in plant disease management. By leveraging agricultural waste materials and minimizing chemical inputs, the approach aligns with broader goals of ecological stewardship and integrated pest management. The findings pave the way for future field applications and policy shifts toward environmentally responsible solutions in horticultural disease control.