Trichoderma harzianum to control botrytis cinerea and High-dynamized dilutions of Silicia terra to promote plant growth on the strawberry culture: methods for sustainable farming practices

Abstract

Agroecological interventions for pest and disease management include several strategies to enhance homeostasis of the crop. Biological agents and homeopathic remedies are innovative and efficient agriculture technologies in the production of pesticide-free food. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of the biological control Trichoderma spp. and high-dynamized dilutions of Silicea terra to manage grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) and to promote growth in strawberry plants cv. San Andreas. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse at EPAGRI experimental station, Lages-SC, 2017. The experimental design consisted of six treatments and five repetitions which were completely randomised. Each plot consisted of a strawberry plant cultivated in a 3.6 L plastic pot. Leaf area, number of leaves, root and leaf weights were assessed. The incidence and severity of grey mould on fruits was also evaluated. The statistical analysis was done by environment R®. Plants treated with Trichoderma spp. (WP formulation) resulted in a lower fruit incidence of B. cinerea fruits in all evaluated periods. Plants treated with Silicea12CH showed wider leaf area, produced more leaves during the cycle and had greater root weight.