Summary
This study screened six agricultural waste extracts and one resistance-inducing product for antifungal efficacy against soil-borne Fusarium pathogens of wheat. Bergamot, pomegranate, and an EP5-based resistance inducer showed promising in vitro inhibition; when tested in vivo across two greenhouse trials, all three significantly reduced disease incidence on roots and foliage in the second trial, with no phytotoxic effects, suggesting potential as alternatives to synthetic fungicides. The persistence of these natural products was variable, particularly for bergamot, warranting further investigation of application strategies.
Regional applicability
The study's geography is not explicitly stated in the abstract provided. Fusarium species tested (F. algeriensis, F. culmorum, F. oxysporum f.sp. dianthi) are relevant to United Kingdom wheat production, though F. culmorum and F. oxysporum are more commonly problematic. Transferability to UK growing conditions would depend on climate, soil type, and pathogen prevalence; the greenhouse conditions may not fully represent field performance in temperate maritime climates.
Key measures
In vitro inhibitory activity (% w/v); disease incidence on roots and second leaf; phytotoxicity symptoms; seed germination rate; plant height; shoot dry matter; fungal re-isolation frequency from roots
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated antifungal activity, phytotoxicity, and persistence of agricultural waste-derived products and a resistance inducer against three Fusarium species in wheat under greenhouse conditions across two successive trials. Plant health indicators measured included root disease incidence, foliar disease on the second leaf, seed germination, plant height, dry matter, and pathogen re-isolation frequency.
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