Abstract:
Use of antagonistic ability of Trichoderma spp. to control plant disease is an alternative disease management practice
that protects the environment from the hazardous effect of the chemicals. Low density of population of Trichoderma spp. in the
normal field is a challenge to gain best effect of antagonist over soil pathogens. Seven organic substrate treatments; compost, cow
dung, paddy husk, paddy straw, coir dust, Gliricidia sepium and control were tested for multiplication and long-term survival of
Trichoderma spp.. Three test conditions; substrates mixed with soil, substrates without mixing in soil and substrates sterilized were
used in the experiment. In addition the bio-fungicide powder applied as the inoculum of Trichoderma spp. was subjected for
confirmation. The concentration of Trichoderma spp. (spores/ml) was counted by Hemocytometer and growth pattern was
recorded throughout the study. The Blister Blas was confirmed to contain of Trichoderma spp. inoculum. Among the conditions
substrates mixed with soil and sterilized substrates had similar effect. A significant effect on growth of Trichoderma spp. was
shown between treatments. Substrates compost and paddy husk recorded highest multiplication of Trichoderma spp. in all three
conditions. Coir dust was not successful in multiplying Trichoderma spp. which recorded lower results than the control. The cost
of application for compost stands greater than paddy husk. Therefore, paddy husk was the affordable organic substrate for farmers
that could be applied in fields in order to multiply Trichoderma spp. in soil.
