Evaluation of biochar as a Trichoderma carrier for managing Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in chickpea

Abstract

The macropores of biochar provide a suitable habitat for microbial growth, and its high carbon content serves as an energy source for beneficial microbes. This study evaluated the potential of biochar as a carrier for Trichoderma in managing Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in chickpeas. Biochar application reduced plant disease severity by 36.5% and increased plant root mass by 23.3%. For this, three types of biochar, wheat straw, organic kitchen waste, and hardwood were tested with Trichoderma, analyzing such as organic C, total N, P, K, Mg, and Ca; pH, and ash content. Trichoderma populations were monitored with biochar carrier of different mesh sizes (250, 150, 75, and 45 μm) for up to 6 weeks after inoculation. Hardwood biochar at 150 μm supported the highest Trichoderma population, reaching 33.5 × 105 CFU·g−1 after 6 weeks. Hardwood biochar also achieved the maximum disease suppression compared to other biochar types. This research highlights the dual role of biochar in enhancing plant growth and controlling disease, contributing to the standardization of biochar use in agricultural practices.