Soil-borne diseases in row crops: A growing threat to crop health and yield

Soil-borne diseases are a significant challenge for row crops, impacting plant health and productivity. These diseases, caused by harmful fungal pathogens, attack plant roots and stems, leading to pre- or post-germination damping off, growth reduction or stunted growth and plant wilting, resulting in plant- and yield losses. Proactive management is essential to minimizing losses and ensuring optimal crop performance.

Invisible to the naked eye, soil-borne pathogens like Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, and Sclerotinia can spread unnoticed, posing a serious threat to row crops such as corn, soybean, and wheat. Every crop depends on healthy root systems for efficient water and nutrient uptake, and any disruption can significantly impact their growth and yield.

Biological soil fungicides based on beneficial microorganisms are strong tools to control soil-borne diseases and promote plant growth at the same time. Triario is such a proven solution for preventing and controlling soil-borne diseases through multiple mechanisms. This product is based on the well-studied, powerful strain Trichoderma harzianum T22.

In the soil, Triario actively competes with harmful pathogens for nutrients and space, effectively outcompeting them. As it colonizes the root zone, it forms a protective barrier, acting as a natural shield against soil-borne diseases. Additionally, Triario directly attacks fungal pathogens by breaking down their cell walls, ultimately causing their death. Last but not least, Triario activates the plant's defense system, reinforcing its natural defenses.

Beyond disease control, Triario enhances water and nutrient uptake, promoting plant growth, uniformity, and overall health. This strengthens the plant’s natural resistance to stress caused by diseases, suboptimal nutrition, water availability, and climatic conditions.

Field trials conducted in France on corn crops demonstrated the effectiveness of Triario against Fusarium spp., reducing disease incidence by 22% compared to the grower’s standard. Additionally, it increased yield by +200 kg/ha, delivering both disease protection and improved productivity.

By integrating biological control agents like Triario into integrated pest management (IPM) programs, growers can protect row crops from soil-borne diseases. This innovative, sustainable, and zero-residue solution not only integrates well with traditional pest control methods but also ensures plant health and productivity all the way to harvest.