Field evaluation of integrated approaches for managing Fusarium wilt of chickpea

To manage Fusarium oxysporum F. sp. Ciceri (Foc), a soil borne plant pathogen, biorationals and Trichoderma (T 19001) were tested individually and in integration under field conditions during rabi 2018-19 and 2019-2020. One potential T 19001 isolate was selected for field studies based on in vitro antagonistic potential, production of strong volatile metabolites, non-volatiles and its compatibility with Panchagavya. Seed treatment with tebuconazole was also tested to compare relative efficacy of biorationals and / or Trichoderma in managing Foc wilt. Observations were also taken on stem rot due to Sclerotium rolfsii and dry root rot due to Macrophomina phaseolina (wilt complex). Pooled analysis during rabi 2018-19 and 2019-20 to assess the biocontrol potential of T 19001 in integration with biorationals revealed that seed treatment with T 19001 + Panchagavya @ 10% resulted in maximum disease control (35.9%) of chickpea wilt complex, yield (1586.5 kg/ha) and B:C ratio (2.40) and was on par with Tebuconazole seed treatment (1672.0 kg/ha and 2.42 B:C ratio). Beejaraksha and beejamrutha were inferior to panchagavya either alone or in integration with T 19001.