Efficacy of biocontrol agents against grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) of chickpea

Experiments were conducted during the year 2009–10 and 2010–11 in order to find out best formulation of bioagent combination for controlling grey mould of chickpea (Cicer arientinum L.). Twelve isolates of Trichoderma harzianum (TH) and ten strains of Pseudomonas fluorescence (PF) were evaluated in laboratory against Botrytis cinerea. TH 41 isolate was found significantly superior by inhibiting growth of the pathogen, followed by isolates TH 34 and TH 44. The FLP 4 strain of PF inhibited maximum fungal growth. Three sprays of a mixture (TH 41 and FLP 4) showed good disease control with increased grain yield.. Therefore, application of TH 41 and FLP 4 in combination can be useful in reducing disease severity, enhancing yield and sustainable management of grey mould in chickpea.