This review offers a comprehensive analysis of the extensive research on methyl jasmonate (MeJA)-induced plant disease resistance. It aims to elucidate the signal transduction pathways, interactions with other phytohormones, regulation of related gene expression, and the fundamental mechanisms contributing to plant disease resistance. The review provides a detailed examination of MeJA-induced defense responses and the sustainability of the induced resistance. Furthermore, it assesses the practical applications and current status of MeJA across various plant species and explores potential research directions in disease management. It serves as a systematic reference for a deeper understanding of MeJA-induced plant disease resistance and holds significant importance for advancing further developments in the field.

Gray mold, caused by Botrytis cinerea, poses a significant fungal threat to postharvest blueberries, leading to substantial economic losses and challenging the sustainable development of the blueberry industry. This highlights the urgent necessity for comprehensive research to develop effective and sustainable management solutions. This review offers a systematic overview of gray mold in blueberries, with a particular emphasis on elucidating the pathological mechanisms employed by B. cinerea, including its infection pathways and virulence factors. It examines the resistance mechanisms in blueberries, which include both preformed and induced physical and biochemical defenses, and synthesizes existing control strategies. These strategies range from conventional fungicides to emerging alternatives such as biological control agents, natural antimicrobials, physical treatments, and integrated pest management (IPM) approaches. Furthermore, the paper explores future research directions by identifying key knowledge gaps and promising areas for innovation. This study aims to bridge the gap between fundamental knowledge and practical application, thereby providing a robust theoretical foundation and actionable guidance for the effective prevention and management of gray mold in blueberry production and storage.

‘Fengtang’ plum is increasingly cultivated in southern China under mountain cultivation conditions, which involve lower temperatures, higher irradiance, and thinner soils. These conditions may uniquely shape the rhizosphere microbiome and influence tree health, yet their effects remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the structural and taxonomic characteristics of the rhizosphere microbial community of ‘Fengtang’ plum grown under mountain cultivation conditions, and to identify key microbial groups associated with plant growth. We performed 16S rRNA and ITS high-throughput sequencing on rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from ‘Fengtang’ plum orchards. Significant differences in α-diversity and β-diversity were observed between rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere communities. Dominant bacterial phyla included Pseudomonadota, Actinobacteriota, Acidobacteriota, and Chloroflexi; Ascomycota and Basidiomycota dominated in fungal communities. Dominant microbial groups were consistent across phylum, class, and order levels. Beneficial genera such as Streptomyces, Bacillus, and Rhizobium were enriched in the rhizosphere, and are considered putative core functional genera based on their known plant-growth-promoting traits. The microbial community in the rhizosphere shows distinct compositional patterns that may be linked to microecological balance. This study seeks to provide a comprehensive perspective for understanding the microbial communities associated with the plum tree rhizosphere.