The role of organic amendments in suppressing Fusarium solani, the causal agent of root rots in watermelon plants
Keywords:
watermelon diseases, soil fungi, resistance, Sustainable agricultureAbstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of organic amendments vermicompost, fermented cow manure, and peat moss) in reducing root rot disease in watermelon caused by the fungus Fusarium solani. The most pathogenic isolates were identified morphologically and molecularly. Results showed significant differences in plant protection when organic amendments were mixed with soil at ratios of 1:1 and 1:2 along with the pathogenic fungus. Disease incidence and severity indices for vermicompost treatment at a 1:1 ratio were 42.85%, 0.61, and 30.95, respectively, compared to 100%, 3.80, and 94.04 for the pathogenonly treatment. The amendments also enhanced root growth, length, and fresh and dry weights compared to the pathogen treatment alone. Additionally, a significant increase in Peroxidase enzyme activity was observed in watermelon plants treated with organic amendments over three-time intervals (7, 14, and 21 days). The study highlights the role of organic amendments in promoting plant growth and mitigating disease.
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