Trichoderma atroviride, strain I-1237, reduces the impact of Pythium spp. in carrot crop production

Vegetable crop production is subject to the attack of several fungal soilborne pathogens, significantly reducing yield and quality. Fungi responsible for these diseases are present in most agricultural soils. Few chemical control products against these diseases are available in the market; although they are efficient, residues on the crop and eco-toxicological concerns have led to a demand for low-risk products. Agrauxine has developed the microbiological solution Tri-Soil® WP using as active substance Trichoderma atroviride I-1237. Preliminary lab tests to determine the mode of action of the strain I-1237 showed a good potential for the biocontrol of soilborne diseases, based on the invasive growth on agar plates of the antagonist over the pathogens Pythium spp. In the field, Trichoderma atroviride I-1237 proved its efficacy against Pythium cavity spot on carrots, attaining a protection level similar to the chemical reference. This specific strain of Trichoderma atroviride demonstrated that it is a suitable alternative for conventional treatments and can therefore be part of an integrated management program of carrot crop soilborne diseases.