In vitro efficacy of systemic fungicides, bioagents and phytoextracts against Colletotrichum truncatum infecting soybean crop

Abstract

Soybean pod blight, caused by Colletotrichum truncatum, is a major production constraint in India, leading to severe yield and quality losses. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of systemic fungicides, biological control agents, and selected Phyto-extracts against the pathogen. Among the fungicides tested, tebuconazole (25.9% EC) completely inhibited mycelial growth, followed by carbendazim, propiconazole, and hexaconazole. The biocontrol agent Trichoderma harzianum exhibited the highest level of antagonistic activity compared to other antagonists evaluated. Among the Phyto-extracts, garlic extract showed the strongest antifungal effect, while ginger, mehandi, and onion extracts also displayed significant growth inhibition. The results highlight the potential of integrating chemical, biological, and botanical agents in developing sustainable management strategies for soybean pod blight under Indian conditions.