In vitro antifungal activity of phytoextracts against wilt pathogens of pomegranate

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a commercially important fruit crop, but its productivity is significantly hindered by wilt disease caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata and Fusarium oxysporum. The increasing reliance on chemical fungicides has raised environmental concerns and led to resistance development in pathogens. As a sustainable alternative, the present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of various phytoextracts against wilt pathogens of pomegranate. Nine plant species viz., garlic, ginger, turmeric, neem, tulsi, onion, dhatura, jatropha, and lantana were tested using aqueous extracts at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% on PDA medium via the poisoned food technique. Garlic extract at 15% demonstrated the highest mycelial growth inhibition, followed by neem and tulsi extracts. These findings suggest that certain phytoextracts, particularly garlic, hold promise as eco-friendly biofungicides for integrated wilt management in pomegranate cultivation.