Ffect Of Pancha Tulsi Against Phomphosis Azadirachtae - The Causative Agent Of Die-Back Disease

Abstract

Neem (Azadirachta indica) commonly known as ‘Indian lilac’ or ‘Margosa’, is a native tree to India. Neem finds very wide application and both wood as well as non-wood products are utilized in many ways. Neem products have antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal and other versatile biological activities¹. However, neem is not free from microbial diseases though having biological activity against various microorganisms. Many bacteria and fungi are known to infect neem¹. A new fungus Phomopsis azadirachtae was reported on neem causing dieback. The fungus infects the neem trees of all age and size. Twigs blight and fruit rot of Azadirachta indica (Neem) infected with dieback disease², collected from different regions of Medchal, Malkajgiri district, India were analysed to determine the pathogens. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of Pancha tulasi essential oil on the growth of Phomopsis azadirachtae isolated from die-back infected neem twigs and fruit rot. The fungus affects leaves, twigs and inflorescence, irrespective of age, size and height of the tree. Apart from fruit rot, it causes twigs blight in neem. Study reveals the control the ’Die-back’ disease is to mix one gram of ‘Bavistin’ powder in seven/eight litres of water. This could be sprayed on the neem trees after the rainy season. After treating with chemical agents such as Thiophanate (ROKO), Profenofos (Profex) is an organophosphate insecticide, we started spraying Pancha tulasi (aromatic oils)- 5 ml in 10 litres of water for the 7 days to sustain the recovery. The disease results in almost 100% loss of fruit production.