Biological control of the disease complex on potato caused by root-knot nematode and Fusarium wilt fungus

Abstract

The effect of Trichoderma koningii and Bacillus megaterium on the control of a disease complex caused by a mixed population (Meloidogyne javanica and Meloidogyne incognita) of root-knot nematodes and the wilt fungus Fusarium oxysporum, and on the growth of potato cv. Nicola, was studied under greenhouse conditions. Application of T. koningii and B. megaterium, alone or in combination, seven days earlier than soil infestation with F. oxysporum and/or the mixed population of Meloidogyne spp., significantly reduced Fusarium wilt disease incidence and nematode infection on potato and improved plant growth components. Generally, the combination of the two bio-control agents was more effective in controlling the plant disease and improving plant growth components than either of the two organisms used singly.