Trichoderma koningiopsis applied as seed coating protects sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) from fungal contaminants during storage

Seed coating is an effective method for delivering beneficial microorganisms to the soil. Additionally, coated seeds are protected against pathogens or microbial contaminants during storage. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of seed coating with the beneficial fungus Trichoderma koningiopsis against fungal contaminants of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) during storage. Sorghum-treated seeds with three concentrations of Trichoderma koningiopsis were stored at two temperatures (5 °C and 18 °C) over 12 months to evaluate physiological-, and sanitary quality of seeds. The concentrations of the most prevalent contaminant fungi Diaporthe melonis, Curvularia lunata and Penicillium polinocum were monitored. The viability of Trichoderma koningiopsis was evaluated every three months and correlated with the seed quality variables. The results indicate that beneficial fungi can protect seeds against fungal contamination during storage avoiding the application of a chemical fungicide. The coating procedure did not affect the seed germination over the 12 months of storage.