Assessment of the pre-harvest treatment with a defense response elicitor on secondary metabolites content and quality of table grapes.
The aim of the following experience was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of a novel elicitor of the defensive response (Optimus®, BIOIBERICA) on the quality and the quantity of bioactive compounds of Crimson and Autum Royal table grape varieties. Results show that the application of Optimus in pre-harvest increases the content of total phenolic compounds, which correlates with the increase in antioxidant capacity. It also highlights the significant increase of the content of resveratrol in two varieties, especially with a double application (at veraison and ripening). The application of Optimus® strengthens the vine resistance against fungal diseases but also increase the functional properties of the berries.