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Integrated use of biochar, Cassia fistula, and Trichoderma for sustainable management of Sclerotium rolfsii in chickpea

Summary

Researchers tested a natural approach to protect chickpea crops from a harmful soil fungus called Sclerotium rolfsii. They combined three natural substances: charred rice husks (biochar), an extract from the Cassia fistula plant, and a beneficial fungus called Trichoderma harzianum. The results showed this combination significantly reduced disease by 45% while also making plants grow stronger and healthier, offering farmers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides.

Background

Sclerotium rolfsii is a devastating soil-borne pathogen causing collar rot in chickpea, leading to significant crop yield losses of 50-70%. Sustainable disease management strategies are needed to reduce dependence on chemical fungicides. Biochar, Cassia fistula, and Trichoderma harzianum are promising natural amendments with antimicrobial and biocontrol properties.

Objective

To evaluate the integrated use of rice husk biochar, Cassia fistula extract, and Trichoderma harzianum for sustainable management of Sclerotium rolfsii in chickpea cultivation. The study assessed their combined effectiveness in suppressing collar rot while promoting plant growth and soil health.

Results

The 3% RHB with 450 ppm cassia extract significantly enhanced T. harzianum growth, achieving 34 × 10⁵ CFU/mL spore count and reducing disease incidence from 64% to 35%. The combination increased shoot length to 45.7 cm, root mass to 4.73 g/plant, and phenolic content to 0.49 µg GAE g⁻¹.

Conclusion

The biochar-cassia-T. harzianum combination effectively manages soil-borne pathogens while enhancing plant defense mechanisms and crop productivity through increased phenolic content. This integrative approach offers a sustainable, eco-friendly strategy for managing Sclerotium rolfsii and improving chickpea production.
  • Published in:BMC Plant Biology,
  • Study Type:Field Experiment,
  • Source: PMID: 40640720
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