Non-Synergistic Effect of Trichoderma harzianum and Glomus spp. in Reducing Infection of Fusarium Wilt in Banana

Abstract

Philippine banana is currently threatened by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (FocR4). This study investigated the use of Trichoderma harzianum pre-treated with Glomus spp, as a means of managing Fusarium wilt on young ‘Lakatan’ banana seedlings. Results showed that Glomus applied basally significantly improved banana seedling growth with increased increment in plant height and pseudostem diameter and heavier root weight. The application of Glomus spp. alone offered 100% protection to the ‘Lakatan’ seedlings against FocR4 as indicated by the absence of the wilting symptom. A combination of T. harzianum and Glomus spp. also gave significant effect against Fusarium wilt through delayed disease progression in the seedlings but was not synergistic. Competitive effects were suspected when application of the two biological control agents on banana roots was done simultaneously.