Even more effect when Trianum is used properly

An increasing number of growers in the Netherlands and other countries are discovering the strength of Trianum (Trichoderma harzianum). However, Trianum is not always used to maximum effect, even though occasionally dramatic improvements in the results can be achieved in a relatively simple manner. For this reason, we give you 9 tips for the best use of Trianum in trickle irrigation systems.

Step 1

Start using Trianum on the plants during the propagation phase. Diseases can become established in the roots while the plants are still at the nursery, and consequently if you omit this fi rst application at the nurseries, disease will gain an immediate edge over the Trichoderma harzianum.

Step 2

The quality of Trianum spores gradually deteriorates in the nutrient solution, and for this reason you should minimise the Trianum transport time to the roots. Use Trianum in as concentrated a suspension as possible, for example by pulsing. It is preferable to introduce Trianum directly into the greenhouse watering system, since this route omits the supply pipes to the greenhouse and ensures that Trianum is introduced at the highest possible concentration. Preference is given to the introduction of Trianum after the sand fi lter, since it is not clear how much time the spores will require to pass through the fi lter. In addition, the spores readily bond to organic matter in the filter.

Step 3

The Trianum spores will require a certain time to reach the plants, depending on the number and length of the trickle irrigation sessions and the volume of the pipes. It is preferable to make sure that the Trianum has been discharged from the pipes by the end of the day, since the spores will then have an opportunity to germinate in the root environment during the night.

Step 4

Make sure that you are familiar with the performance of your trickle irrigation system! You can add 100 grams of red iron oxide to each 1,000 litres to determine which trickle irrigation session will discharge Trianum from the tricklers.

Step 5

The Trianum spores need to germinate, a process which takes about twenty-four hours. Once mycelia start to grow from the spores, those spores will be less readily flushed out of the soil. Consequently, you should endeavour to minimise the use of the drain for two days after the introduction of the spores.

Step 6

Make sure that the Trianum spores do not settle during introduction. The spores do not dissolve in water, and are heavier than water. Consequently, you will need to stir the suspension.

Step 7

Do not use disinfectants in the pipes one day before and two days after introducing Trianum.

Step 8

Trianum can be integrated with most fungicides. Preference is given to a three-day interval between the use of these agents and the introduction of Trianum.

Step 9

On occasion it may take slightly longer for Trianum to arrive at the plants in the fi rst weeks after they have been planted. These weeks can be bridged by dosing 1 gram Trianum-G (granulate) in the planting hole before positioning the plant. This achieves a rapid and thorough colonisation of Trichoderma harzianum in the roots