Trichoderma afroharzianum and atrobrunneum

This group of biological agents belongs to the class of microbiological fungicides. The primary active component consists of antagonistic fungi that actively colonize the rhizosphere of plants.

The mechanism of action is based on mycoparasitism, where Trichoderma hyphae coil around pathogen mycelia, secreting specific enzymes such as chitinases and glucanases that degrade the cell walls of harmful fungi.

In addition to direct parasitism, these fungi exhibit antibiotic activity by producing biologically active substances that suppress the growth of pathogens within their reach in the soil.

An important feature of their action is the stimulation of the plant's own immune system, which enhances the development of a robust root system and promotes systemic acquired resistance (SAR).

The complex action of this group aims to create a protective barrier around the roots, limiting the ability of infections to penetrate plant tissues during the critical early stages of growth.

These biological agents are used to combat a wide range of soil-borne infections that cause root and basal rots in various agricultural crops.

They effectively suppress the activity of major pathogens, including Fusarium, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Phytophthora, which are primary causes of seedling damping-off.

Their application is relevant for vegetable, berry, and cereal crops, as well as in greenhouse production and nursery operations for seedlings.

Using these products significantly reduces plant losses under conditions of high humidity and thermal stress, which are typically favorable for the development of molds.

Furthermore, these fungi contribute to the decomposition of organic matter in the soil, improving the overall phytosanitary condition of the agricultural ecosystem.

Application rates depend on the formulation (liquid or dry powder) and the method of application, such as pre-sowing seed treatment or soil incorporation before planting.

For seed soaking or seedling treatment, specific solution concentrations are used to ensure that the surfaces of the plant material are thoroughly coated with fungal spores.

Soil application is most commonly performed via drenching or by placing dry formulations in the seed furrow, allowing the fungus to quickly colonize the root zone.

Application timing is strictly tied to phenological growth stages: the most effective initial treatment occurs at sowing or transplanting, when the risk of infection is at its highest.

To maintain a high level of rhizosphere colonization, repeat applications every 14 to 21 days are recommended, especially in intensive greenhouse production systems.

A primary limitation is the incompatibility with most chemical fungicides, particularly systemic ones, which can destroy the living fungal culture of the biopesticide.

The effectiveness of the product directly depends on environmental conditions: the optimal soil temperature for Trichoderma development ranges from +15 to +25 degrees Celsius.

In excessively dry or compacted soil, the fungus slows its metabolic processes, necessitating the maintenance of adequate soil moisture and aeration.

During storage, it is essential to avoid exposure to direct sunlight and high temperatures, as the viability of the spores can drop significantly if the storage conditions are violated.

Safety measures include wearing standard personal protective equipment to prevent spores from contacting mucous membranes, although these products are generally considered to have low toxicity to humans and animals.