Research has indicated that biological control of leaf scar infection is at least feasible. The tissues of leaf scars become invaded by various host-specific fungi, common primary saprophytes and bacteria.
- Experimentally an isolate of Bacillus subtilis was found to be highly antagonistic to N. ditissima when applied to leaf scars immediately after leaf removal.
- Other potential antagonistic fungi included Alternaria spp. and Trichoderma viride.
- Research in AHDB Project TF 223 (Improving integrated pest and disease management in tree fruit) assessed the use of soil amendments with biological control agents. Amending soils with Trianum G (Trichoderma harzianum) in newly planted orchards and stoolbeds, showed some promise in reducing the incidence of canker development. This is not currently approved for use in apple orchards and would require the product to be registered for this use before growers can legally use it in this way.
- So far no biocontrol agents for Neonectria have been developed commercially.