Mass multiplication of Trichoderma harzianum (THCh-1) in agro-substrates

Among the different cereal grains tested, significantly maximum population of T. hrzianum (THCh-1) was found in sorghum grains. The grains of wheat and finger millet and bajra were also good. Among the different organic matters tested, maximum population of T. hrzianum (THCh-1) was found in well decomposed farm yard manure which was statistically at par with cow dung, seasoned sugarcane press mud and vermicompost. Among the different agricultural wastes, maximum population of T. hrzianum (THCh-1) was found in wheat bran. Rice straw and banana pseudostem also proved as better sources. Among the agricultural wastes, dried banana leaves, sugarcane baggase, chickpea husk, dry weed, sugarcane trash, dried mango leaves and wheat bran proved good sources for the growth of T. hrzianum (THCh-1). The results revealed that farmer waste can be utilized as a good source for multiplication of Trichoderma and decomposition of agriculture waste. This can be applied as enriched organic manure. Farmers can be trained for such multiplication. Thus, conversion of agri-waste into a value added organic product can prove a novel field level acceptable technique.