The effect of the application of the biological control agent EM1 on gas exchange parameters and productivity of Pisum sativum L. infected with Fusarium oxysporum Schlecht.

Abstract

A pot experiment on different methods of EM 1 application was conducted in the period 2002-2004. The study was carried out under controlled growth conditions. The experimental factor was the method of EM1 application. Before application, the biological preparation EM1 was propagated as recommended by the manufacturer (Greenland). The health status of the aboveground parts of 'Ramrod' pea plants was estimated at the flowering stage. The assessment of pea leaf gas exchange parameters (An, E, Gs, and Ci) was made using a LI-Cor 6400 Portable Photosynthesis System. Soil application of EM1 combined with chemical control contributed to inhibiting Fusarium wilt of pea. Foliar application of EM1 combined with chemical control increased all gas exchange rates of pea leaves. Fusarium wilt of pea insignificantly decreased all gas exchange rates of pea leaves and the number of seeds per pod. The best method of EM1 application was soil treatment combined with chemical control, which increased all yield-related morphometric parameters of pea.