Protect young plants from soil-borne diseases

Based on the antagonistic fungus Trichoderma asperellum T34, this biofungicide protects plants against soil-borne fungal diseases. For the past two years ASPERELLO T34 Biocontrol has been successfully used by Dutch protected ornamental growers to strengthen the root environment.

Two mechanisms

Koen explains that the effect is based on two different mechanisms. "Firstly, ASPERELLO forms a kind of net of fungal threads around the plant roots," he explains. "It competes with Pythium for growing space and available nutrients. As a result, Pythium has less chance of establishing and infecting the roots."

"ASPERELLO also exerts a parasitic effect. Pythium's tough survival structures, which can sometimes remain in the soil for years, are infected and broken down by ASPERELLO."

First application is most important

Koen stresses the importance of starting ASPERELLO applications as early as possible in the cultivation. 

"The first application is the most important as it gives the ASPERELLO fungal spores time to colonise the roots and grow with them."

"Tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet peppers growers often instruct young plant suppliers to start biofungicide applications during propagation. Pot plant growers usually initiate applications at the potting/transplanting stage, mixing the ASPERELLO with the growing substrate."

Apply every 12 weeks

"By reapplying ASPERELLO every 12 weeks after planting, its positive impact on the roots and plant growth is maintained throughout the entire cultivation period," says Koen.

"Application is easy via the irrigation system as the substance remains in suspension. ASPERELLO can also be combined with other chemical agents against Pythium - but always contact your Biobest advisor in advance to check compatibility."

For more information, please contact lise.verachtert@biobestgroup.com.

Source: HortiBiz