Evaluation of the bioformulation of potent native strains of Trichoderma spp. against the foot rot/gummosis of Kinnow mandarin

Abstract Background Foot rot/gummosis of citrus, caused by Phytophthora spp., is the most important disease responsible for yield losses 10 to 30% in fruit production major citrus growing countries. Considering burden disease, present study was undertaken evaluate different native potent strains Trichoderma spp. against foot citrus. Results Based on molecular characteristics, i.e., ITS ribosomal DNA sequence analysis, 3 isolates nicotianae var . parasitica and 7 (6 T. asperellum one harzianum ) were identified. Metalaxyl-M + Mancozeb used assess antagonistic activity under field conditions. T20 mutant reduced gummosis lesion size (95.67%), improved feeder root density (0.0236 cm ), increased number (990.16), fruits (168.83 kg). Conclusions The talc-based bioformulation ( strain, as a soil treatment, able manage effectively gummosis/foot rot also exhibited highest yield.