Mass Multiplication and Shelf Life Studies of Pseudomonas fluorescens against Pigeonpea Wilt

Among various solid substrates tested for mass multiplication of potential antagonist Pseudomonas fluorescens isolate CPF₄, farm yard manure supported maximum growth followed by gobar gas slurry. The shelf life period was high in talc based formulation when it was stored at refrigerator temperature (4°C). The efficacy of potential biocontrol agent (CPF₄) and compatible fungicide (carbendazim) was tested in pot culture against wilt of redgram. The results revealed that treatment T₆ (soil application with potential biocontrol agent + soil drenching with fungicide) was superior in reducing per cent disease incidence and increasing plant growth parameters like root length, shoot length, dry weight of shoot and root when compared to other treatments.