2025, Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part C

Root rot disease poses a significant threat to mulberry cultivation. The present study investigates the isolation and in vitro management of Fusarium oxysporum, the causal agent of dry root rot disease in mulberry. The pathogen was isolated from diseased root samples and rhizosphere soils, and its identity was confirmed based on characteristic cultural and microscopic features. On PDA, colonies were fast-growing with dense white to cream-pink mycelia and a pinkish-yellow reverse. Microscopic observations showed hyaline, septate hyphae, short conidiophores, and slightly sickle-shaped, 3 to 4 septate macroconidia. The antagonistic efficacy of fungal biocontrol agents, fungicides, and herbal oils against F. oxysporum was evaluated. Among the biocontrol agents, Trichoderma viride exhibited the highest mycelial inhibition (77.21%), significantly outperforming T. asperellum (66.68%) and T. harzianum (63.00%). Fungicide evaluation across six concentrations showed Hexaconazole (82.35%), Propiconazole (81.88%), and Carbendazim (81.77%) as the most effective inhibitory ability compare to Tebuconazole, Thiophanate methyl, and Tricyclazole. Further, Neem oil (60.90%) and Eucalyptus oil (59.68%) recorded the highest inhibition of mycelial growth followed by Clove and Cinnamon oils. Basil and Pongamia oils were least effective. Overall, T. viride, triazole fungicides particularly Hexaconazole and Propiconazole, and selected herbal oils (Neem and Eucalyptus) demonstrated significant antagonistic potential against F. oxysporum and may serve as effective components in integrated management strategies for mulberry root rot disease.