TRICHODERMA-PLANT INTERACTIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE CROP PRODUCTION UNDER ORGANIC FARMING SYSTEMS

Abstract

Trichoderma is one of the most versatile bio-control agents, ubiquitous in soil, multifaceted, with tremendous potential for use in organic farming systems. Since the time of its discovery, Trichoderma has been found to be of considerable importance in various facets of agriculture as well as industry. The industrial applications revolve around the production of various types of enzymes by different species of Trichoderma. However, it has more often been used as a bio-control agent, particularly for the management of soil borne diseases, though it has also been reported to be effective against foliar pathogens. It has multiple modes of action, viz., mycoparasitism, antibiosis, competition and induced systemic resistance. An important characteristic of Trichoderma is its bio-stimulant activity. Trichoderma has been found to stimulate the various growth parameters like root growth, shoot growth, flower and fruit production and total yield, in addition to disease management. In the present scenario, Trichoderma can be integrated with the various agricultural operations for sustainable crop production. This is particularly so because Trichoderma has been found efficient for soil bio-remediation and can improve the quality of soil which in turn increases the quality of yield. Thus, it is highly recommended that Trichoderma be incorporated in the schedule for sustainable organic farming system as it combines many benefits like management of diseases, bio-stimulant action for crop growth and soil bio-remediation.