In Vitro Evaluation of Botanicals and Bioformulations against Fusarium solani Causing Apple Root Rot

Abstract

This study evaluated the antifungal potential of selected indigenous bioformulations and botanical extracts against Fusarium solani, the causal agent of apple root rot, under in vitro conditions. The experiment was conducted using the poisoned food technique on Potato Dextrose Agar at the Department of Plant Pathology, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, during 2024–25. Bioformulations such as Beejamrit, Jeevamrit, Brahmastra, Aganiastra, and aged buttermilk, along with botanical extracts of Azadirachta indica, Allium sativum, and other plants, were tested at different concentrations. Aged buttermilk showed complete inhibition of fungal growth at higher concentrations, followed by Aganiastra, while Jeevamrit was less effective. Among botanicals, Azadirachta indica showed the highest antifungal activity, followed by Allium sativum. The results indicate that indigenous bioformulations and botanicals have strong antifungal properties and can be used as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides for managing apple root rot. These findings support their potential integration into sustainable disease management strategies in apple production.