Alteration of rhizosphere by microbial intervention and organic amendments suppresses sesame root rot incidence and augments plant growth

Microbial antagonists and organic products were exploited in the present investigation both in vitro and in vivo conditions to formulate an effective and eco-friendly management strategy for the suppression of root rot disease of sesame. Native Trichoderma asperellum isolate ( Ta ) from healthy sesame rhizosphere and Pseudomonas fluorescens ( Pf ) found superior among fungal and bacterial biocontrol agents tested recording 80.59% and 88.79% respectively, against Macrophomina phaseolina in dual culture technique. Among oil cakes, neem cake inhibited maximum M. phaseolina mycelial inhibition (52.59%, 68.89%, and 87.06%) in vitro at 3%, 4% and 5% concentrations. Meanwhile, T. asperellum, P. fluorescens and neem cake were found compatible with each other in vitro in the compatibility test. However, combined application of T. asperellum and P. fluorescens as seed treatment (5 g each/kg) and soil application (2.5 kg/ha) along with neem cake (250 kg/ha) and farm yard manure (100 kg/ha) enhanced 24.38% yield by suppressing the disease incidence to an appreciable level (64.45%). From the present research, it was concluded that, co-application of T. asperellum and P. fluorescens along with organic products suppressed the disease incidence and augmented plant growth than its sole application and much better than a chemical application which could be serve as a step towards sustainable agriculture.