The present invention provides a method for controlling Ceratocystis spp. in a plant and/or reducing losses in harvested crops, the method comprising applying to a plant and/or locus for plant growth an effective amount of at least one biological control agent selected from Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and metabolites produced therefrom. The present invention also encompasses the use of a composition comprising at least one biological control agent selected from Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and metabolites produced therefrom for controlling Ceratocystis spp. in a plant.
