Efficacy of Bio-Agents in Managing Root Rot of Okra Caused by Rhizoctonia solani

Abstract

Okra or lady’s finger [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] is one of the most important summer vegetables of Rajasthan as well as India. Okra is attacked by several diseases caused by fungi and important one is root rot caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, which is an important constraint to the crop and causes significant economic losses. During present study, two bio-agents were evaluated alone and in combination Trichoderma harzianum through seed (4 g/kg) and soil (4 kg/ha) applications for two consecutive years under artificial inoculation conditions in the field. Among these, seed + soil application of Trichoderma harzianum was found most effective in reducing disease incidence (48.76%) and in increasing pod yield (13.46%) followed by seed treatment with T. harzianum + soil application of Pseudomonas fluorescens (46.41% and 12.84%, respectively). Looking to the increasing demand of organically produces in the market, root rot disease can be managed effectively with these eco-friendly approaches for supplying organically produced vegetables to fulfil the ever-increasing demand among health-conscious people.