Effect of Different Application Methods of Trichoderma Isolates on Growth and Disease Response against Stem and Root Rot Disease of Ground Nut Seedlings (Arachis hypogea L.) Incited by Sclerotium rolfsii

The pot culture experiment of groundnut seedlings was performed to study the efficacy of UBT 21 & UBT 23 strains of Trichoderma spp. and their application methods on seedling growth parameters, rhizosphere colonizing ability, sclerotial wilt disease reduction and induction of defense enzymes (total phenols and polyphenol oxidase). It was found that shoot and root length differ significantly with Trichoderma treated seedlings irrespective to the method of application but soil application provided better effect on biomass development. The rhizosphere colonization by Trichoderma spp. was maximum in combined application with soil and seed treatment. Trichoderma treated pots showed 65-80% reduction in incidence of stem and root rot disease over control. Moreover, an increased activity of total phenols and polyphenol oxidase was found. Soil application combined with seed treatment provided better results for growth promotion and disease reduction. The UBT 23 treatment was more effective over UBT 21 strain.