Realizing the Promise of Biological Seed Treatments

G.E. Harman


 
ABSTRACT

Biological control has been both more variable and less effective than have chemical pesticides. For several years, we have attempted to develop biological seed treatment systems with fungi in the genus Trichoderma that would protect seed from plant pathogens, colonize and protect roots, and increase plant yield. Recently we have been successful. The critical components are (a) seed treatments that are conducive and stimulatory to the bioprotectant, and (b) a genetically superior strain of T. harzianum prepared using protoplast fusion. Together these provide seed treatments that protect seeds as well or better than existing chemical fungicides, and which colonize and protect roots. Yields of several crops, including cotton, were increased in field trials relative to those treated with mixtures of fungicides



Reprinted from Proceedings: 1989 Beltwide Cotton Research Conferences pg. 15
©National Cotton Council, Memphis TN

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Document last modified Sunday, Dec 6 1998