In vitro evaluation of biocontrol agents against basal rot of garlic

Basal rot is a soil borne disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae. It is known to affect garlic production throughout the world. Various strategies such as crop rotation and raising of resistant varieties have been tried to limit the damage caused due to this fungus. Biocontrol is another effective option that can be used to control the spread of disease. Biocontrol process is generally harmless to humans, a non-polluting, biodegradable and selective mode of action. Moreover, pathogens cannot develop resistance easily, no harm is caused to other beneficial microorganisms, improve soil health and help in achieving agricultural sustainability. Efficacy of fungal and bacterial bioagents were checked against the basal rot of garlic. The potential of six species of fungal species viz. Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma viridae, Trichoderma virens, Trichoderma hamatum, bacterial species viz. Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis were evaluated against F. oxysporum under in vitro conditions. Dual culture and streak plate method was used evaluation of fungal and bacterial antagonists. Among the fungal antagonists maximum inhibition of mycelial growth was noted in Trichoderma viridae (74 %), Pseudomonas fluorescens proved to be the most effective bacteria in reducing (30 %) the mycelial growth.