Evaluation of organic amendments and bioagents for the management of stem rot of mustard caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in vitro and in vivo experiments

Abstract

Oilseed brassicas, commonly known as rapeseed–mustard, belong to the family Brassicaceae, which comprises approximately 350 genera and over 3,500 species. Rapeseed–mustard crops are vulnerable to a wide range of pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and phytoplasmas. Among these, Sclerotinia stem rot, caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is one of the most destructive fungal diseases affecting Indian mustard, leading to significant yield and economic losses. This study presents a comprehensive review of current disease management approaches emphasizing the use of organic amendments and biological control agents, along with recent advances in eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the research evaluates the efficacy of selected bio agents and organic amendments under both in vitro and in vivo conditions to enhance our understanding of their role in managing Sclerotinia stem rot. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Plant Pathology, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner. Four bio agents were tested in vitro, while eight organic amendments and bio agent combinations were evaluated in vitro. Among the bio agents tested in vitro, Trichoderma harzianum exhibited the maximum mycelial growth inhibition (68.51%), which was significantly superior to T. viride (61.94%), Pseudomonas fluorescens (24.31%), and Bacillus subtilis (17.66%). Under in vivo conditions, the combined application of Trichoderma harzianum + neem cake demonstrated the highest disease suppression with 74.72% inhibition, followed by Trichoderma harzianum + mustard cake (71.35%). The lowest efficacy was observed with mustard cake alone (32.47%).The findings highlight the potential of bio agents, particularly Trichoderma harzianum, in combination with organic amendments, as effective and sustainable alternatives to chemical fungicides for the management of Sclerotinia stem rot in mustard. The study also outlines future research directions aimed at strengthening eco-friendly disease management strategies for sustainable mustard production.