Management of tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) and its thrips vector in tomato using a new commercial formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens strain and neem oil

Abstract

Tomato spotted wilt virus is spread by the insect vector Thrips tabaci and causes severe yield losses. Talc based powder formulation of Pseudomonas fluorescens strains with or without chitin, along with 3% Neem oil (Natural Pesticide) was applied to tomato plants. The present study deals with different methods of application of talc based powder formulations of Pseudomonas fluorescens strains to seed, soil and foliage or as a seedling dip followed by three foliar sprays of 3% Neem oil from seeds of Azadirachta indica (Bio pesticide), which reduced the number ofthrips vectorviz., nymphs and adults and also reduced the incidence of TSWVin tomato plants both in glasshouse and field conditions. We observed increased growth in PGPR tomato plants. DAC ELISA tests showed low concentration of viral antigen in PGPR treated tomato leaves and also in nymphs and adult thrips. An environmentally safe approach helped in managing the viral disease and optimizing tomato yield.