Trichoderma afroharzianum strain T-22

Trichoderma afroharzianum strain T-22 is a powerful biological control agent classified as a beneficial soil fungus. It functions as a biofungicide, protecting crops by establishing a symbiotic relationship with the root system.

The primary mechanism involves the rapid colonization of the rhizosphere, where the fungus outcompetes harmful pathogens for space and nutrients, effectively starving them out.

Strain T-22 produces specialized enzymes such as chitinases and glucanases that physically degrade the cell walls of pathogenic fungi like Pythium and Fusarium, neutralizing them on contact.

Beyond its parasitic action, the strain stimulates the plant's natural immune system and promotes root growth by secreting growth-promoting compounds, leading to more vigorous and resilient plants.

By forming a protective mantle around the roots, the fungus acts as a barrier that prevents soil-borne pathogens from invading the plant's vascular tissues.

This biological agent is highly effective against a wide range of soil-borne diseases that cause significant damage to agricultural and horticultural crops.

• Fusarium root rot (Fusarium spp.)
• Damping-off diseases (Pythium spp.)
• Rhizoctonia root rot (Rhizoctonia solani)
• Grey mold (Botrytis cinerea)
• Sclerotinia crown rot

It is commonly used on vegetables, ornamental plants, berries, and turf to improve soil health and suppress endemic pathogen populations.

The application is especially beneficial for nursery-grown seedlings, helping to minimize loss during the fragile early development stages after transplanting.

Consistent use of T-22 contributes to an overall healthier soil microbiome, which is essential for long-term productivity and sustainable crop production.

Application rates for T-22 are calculated based on the crop type and the method of delivery, ensuring that a sufficient density of spores reaches the active root zone.

For seed treatment, the product is applied to ensure a uniform coating, often paired with an adjuvant to improve the adhesion of fungal spores to the seed surface.

Soil drenching and irrigation systems are the most efficient ways to distribute the agent throughout the root mass, providing instant protection where it is needed most.

Timing is crucial; for the best results, application should be prophylactic, targeting the soil environment before the pathogens reach critical levels of infestation.

Sequential applications are recommended at intervals of 2 to 3 weeks, particularly during periods of high humidity or favorable conditions for fungal growth.

Temperature is a major limiting factor, as the efficacy of strain T-22 is highest within a moderate range of 15°C to 25°C, while extreme heat or cold reduces its activity.

Chemical systemic fungicides should not be applied alongside T-22, as they are likely to destroy the biological population and render the treatment ineffective.

Soil pH levels should be monitored, as extreme acidity or alkalinity may create an inhospitable environment for the fungus, hindering its ability to colonize and thrive.

Storage must be maintained under recommended cool and dry conditions, away from direct sunlight, to ensure the viability and shelf life of the biological spores.

Avoid mixing the preparation with strong chemical disinfectants or bactericides that could disrupt the balance of the soil microbial community.