Growth responses of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) to inoculation with Trichoderma viride, mancozeb and Sclerotium rolfsii in sterile and non-sterile soils

Abstract

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentum) is an annual vegetable that is cultivated in the tropics and subtropics. Infestation by Sclerotium rolfsii can cause serious economic losses to farmers. Therefore, the curative effect of Trichoderma viride and mancozeb on S. rolfsii on okra plants was monitored in the green house in both non-sterile and sterile soils. Okra cultivated in non-sterile soils were healthier and stronger than those in sterile soils although plants were taller in sterile soil. Generally, the fresh weight of okra leaf, root and stem were higher in non-sterile soil than in sterile soil. The fruit yields of okra in non-sterile soil were higher than those of the sterile soil, irrespective of the treatments. Based on the results of this investigation, it is not recommended to use sterile soil if one is interested in yield of the plant.