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Impact of Various Essential Oils on the Development of Pathogens of the Fusarium Genus and on Health and Germination Parameters of Winter Wheat and Maize

Summary

Researchers tested four plant-based essential oils as natural alternatives to chemical fungicides for protecting wheat and maize seeds from harmful Fusarium fungi. Thyme oil proved most effective at preventing fungal infections and seedling disease, performing as well as synthetic fungicides. However, thyme oil at higher doses harmed seed germination and plant growth, suggesting careful dose selection is needed for practical use. The findings indicate essential oils could replace chemical pesticides while maintaining crop safety, though different oils must be tested for various crops.

Background

Fusarium fungi are significant pathogens affecting wheat and maize cultivation worldwide, causing seedling blight and mycotoxin contamination. Essential oils from plants possess natural antimicrobial properties and represent a potential alternative to synthetic fungicides. This study evaluated four essential oils for their effectiveness as natural seed treatments against Fusarium pathogens.

Objective

To assess the composition of essential oils from sage, cypress, cumin, and thyme, evaluate their impact on mycelial development of Fusarium pathogens, and determine their suitability as pre-sowing seed treatments for winter wheat and maize without adverse effects on germination and seedling development.

Results

Thyme essential oil provided the strongest inhibition of Fusarium mycelial development and seedling infection, comparable to prothioconazole, but significantly reduced germination parameters and seedling growth in wheat. Sage and cumin oils showed moderate antifungal activity with fewer adverse effects on plant development. Cypress oil demonstrated the weakest antifungal effect among all tested oils.

Conclusion

Essential oils represent promising alternatives to synthetic fungicides for controlling Fusarium seedling infections, though careful selection is required to balance fungicidal efficacy with crop safety. Thyme oil offers superior disease control but requires dose optimization to minimize phytotoxic effects. Further research on various essential oils and application methods is warranted for agricultural implementation.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/molecules29102376, PMID: 38792237
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