Bio-management of root rot complex of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii bolus)

Combination of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. gerberae and Pythium sp. was found major cause of root rot complex of gerbera. King's B and Pseudomonas agar media were best for supporting growth of P. fluorescens, produced yellow to greenish pigmented circular colonies, also showed ability to hydrolyse the starch, liquefied the gelatin, acid and gas. Trichoderma spp. isolated by using Trichoderma selective medium was found morphologically distinct in characters. Among antagonists, Pseudomonas flourescens-P-₁ and Trichoderma sp.-I₁, showed maximum inhibition against F. oxysporum f.sp. gerberae and Pythium sp., respectively. In pot culture study, seedling inoculation with resident Tricho-I₁ + Pseudo-P₁ gave better results followed by Tricho-I₁+ Pseudo-P₂. Seedling inoculation in combination of resident bio-agents Tricho-I₁ + Pseudo -P₁ and Tricho -I₁+ Pseudo-P₂ was effective in the management of root rot complex of gerbera.