LAUSR

Abstract Alternaria leaf blight is one of the most destructive foliar diseases of chickpea in different countries including Pakistan and has caused huge losses ranging from 5 to 100% around the world. This study was carried out to check the in-vitro effectiveness and sustainability of a bio-control agent Trichoderma viride and some essential oils like Castor, Jasmine, Clove, Sesame, Neem, Coconut, Henna, Black seed, and Mint oil at different doses of 1%, 2%, 4%, and 6% by food poisoned method against the mycelial colony growth inhibition of A. alternata which causes leaf blight in chickpea. The results indicate that maximum germination (80%) was recorded in control, (63%) under soil infestation and a minimum germination of (60%) was recorded in seed infestation. Maximum shoot weight (0.5630 g) in control, (0.2751 g) under soil infestation and (0.2064 g) in seed infestation. Maximum root weight (0.5937 g) in control, (0.4359 g) under soil infestation method, and (0.4102 g) in seed infestation method. Maximum shoot length (20.00 cm) in control, (10.23 cm) under soil infestation method and (7.053 cm) in seed infestation method. Maximum root length (7.19 cm) in control, (4.80 cm) under soil infestation method and (4.80 cm) in seed infestation. Bio-control agent Trichoderma viride showed (74.44%) growth inhibition compared to control (1.00%) growth inhibition of A. alternata. Maximum colony growth inhibition of A. alternata was (80.00%) Sesame, Coconut (77.04%), Henna (72.59%), Mint (66.07%), Black seed (71.85%), Jasmine (64.07%), Clove (70.74%), Neem (73.33%), Castor (58.89%) and minimum of (1.00%) was recorded in control. The results of this study will be very helpful for researchers and farming community for better management of this destructive disease of chickpea.