Are Basic Substances a Key to Sustainable Pest and Disease Management in Agriculture? An Open Field Perspective

Pathogens and pests constantly challenge food security and safety worldwide. The use of
plant protection products to manage them raises concerns related to human health, the environment,
and economic costs. Basic substances are active, non-toxic compounds that are not predominantly
used as plant protection products but hold potential in crop protection. Basic substances’ attention
is rising due to their safety and cost-effectiveness. However, data on their protection levels in crop
protection strategies are lacking. In this review, we critically analyzed the literature concerning
the field application of known and potential basic substances for managing diseases and pests,
investigating their efficacy and potential integration into plant protection programs. Case studies
related to grapevine, potato, and fruit protection from pre- and post-harvest diseases and pests were
considered. In specific cases, basic substances and chitosan in particular, could complement or even
substitute plant protection products, either chemicals or biologicals, but their efficacy varied greatly
according to various factors, including the origin of the substance, the crop, the pathogen or pest,
and the timing and method of application. Therefore, a careful evaluation of the field application is
needed to promote the successful use of basic substances in sustainable pest management strategies
in specific contexts.