In vitro evaluation of fungicides against Macrophomina phaseolina associated with charcoal rot of maize

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.), member of family Poaceae, is the third important cereal crop of tropical and sub-tropical regions of the World, preceded by rice and wheat. The major pathogen responsible for the disease is Macrophomina phaseolina the extent of loss in grain yield ranged from 25-32.2 per cent and along with decrease in fodder quality. In vitro efficacy of fungicides against Macrophomina phaseolina associated with charcoal rot of maize by using poison food techniques. All eight fungicides tested at 50% of recommended dose and recommended dose. For inhibition of mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina among eight fungicides Mancozeb 75% WP, Carbendazim 50% WP, Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% WP and Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% SC at all concentrations were most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of Macrophomina phaseolina, while Metalaxyl 35% WS gave least inhibition of pathogen.