Non-chemical management of stem rot disease of Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.)

Stem rot of Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) is considered as one of the major constraints for green fodder and seed yield. Berseem stem rot is incited by a soil borne pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Botanical extracts of Aegle marmelos, Melia azedarach, Murraya koenigii, neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) and organic products like panchagavya, compost tea and poultry manure were evaluated for the management of stem rot disease. Botanical extracts were applied as foliar spray and seed treatment as well and organic inputs were applied as soil application and foliar spray. Among botanicals, application of A. marmelos showed a significant reduction in stem rot by 54.50% with 24.20% increase in green fodder yield. Among organic inputs, application of panchagavya significantly controlled the stem rot disease by 46.15% and enhanced the green fodder yield by 21.30% than untreated control. Application of panchagavya followed by A. marmelos leaf extracts along with significant disease control also enhanced green fodder yield during both seasons. Average disease control attained by application of panchagavya and A. marmelos was 54.50 and 46.15% and enhanced green fodder yield was 24.20 and 21.30%, respectively. The current study showed that plant extracts and organic inputs have potential for the management of stem rot of berseem.