Biological control of root-rot and wilt disease of faba bean using some bioagents

Abstract

In this study Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma album, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus megaterium were antagonistic to the growth of Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum and F. solani, the causal pathogens of faba bean root-rot and wilt, with different degrees of inhibition. T. harzianum was the most effective followed to T. album, B. subtilis and B. megaterium, respectively. B. megaterium was the least effective. Under greenhouse conditions, it was found that the radial growth of the fungus and significantly decreased root-rot and wilt and increased plant height, fresh weight and dry weight. Plant guard gave the highest inhibition followed by Bio-zeid, Rhizo-N and Bio-ARC, respectively. In field experiments, results indicated that all antagonists offered a highly significant protection comparing with the untreated. Plant guard was the best followed by Bio-zeid, Rhizo-N and Bio-ARC, respectively.