Studying the effect of some abiotic factors on managing root and crown rot diseases of strawberries

Crown and root rot in strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa), instigated by the fungal pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina, poses a formidable challenge to global strawberry agriculture. This investigation scrutinizes the effectiveness of various chemical and natural inducers against M. phaseolina (PP178224), a soilborne menace to strawberry vitality. Among the treatments assessed, oxalic acid and Rizolex-T exhibited remarkable efficacy, achieving complete inhibition of mycelial growth at concentrations of 8 mM and 3 g/L, respectively. Oxalic acid compromised fungal cell membranes and chelated vital metal ions, while Rizolex-T impeded lipid biosynthesis, thereby undermining cell membrane integrity. Conversely, chitosan, despite its recognized antifungal attributes, proved ineffective at concentrations ranging from 1 to 3 g/L, potentially due to inadequate molecular weight or deacetylation levels. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) demonstrated promising results, achieving 88.1% efficacy at 3%, by generating reactive oxygen species that inflicted damage on fungal cells. Camphor oil, a natural terpenoid, displayed moderate efficacy with 59.6% inhibition at 3%, disrupting fungal membranes and mitochondrial functions. Rizolex-T50% emerged as the most potent treatment, significantly curtailing disease incidence and severity, although its chemical nature raises environmental and resistance concerns. Natural inducers like oxalic acid, chitosan, ZnO NPs, and camphor oil exhibited moderate effectiveness, underscoring their potential as sustainable alternatives. These treatments not only bolstered plant growth but also enhanced phenolic content and defense enzyme activities, aligning with their roles in systemic resistance and oxidative defense. This research offers critical insights into sustainable strategies for managing M. phaseolina in strawberry cultivation.