Optimization of trichoderma harzianum inoculation techniques for enhanced root development in irish potato (solunum tuberosum)
- Author
- Gwenhure, N.
- Title
- Optimization of trichoderma harzianum inoculation techniques for enhanced root development in irish potato (solunum tuberosum)
- Abstract
- Poor root in Irish Potato (Solanum tuberosum) remains a major limitation to its productivity, often resulting from soil compaction, nutrient deficiency, and environmental stress. This study aimed to evaluate effectiveness of different Trichoderma harzianum inoculation methods that is soil drenching, seed treatment, and foliar spray on root development and associated growth parameters in Irish potato. The experiment was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four treatments replicated four times. Data was collected on root length, shoot length, tuber count, and SPAD value, and analyzed using ANOVA and Pearson correlation. Results revealed that all T. harzianum treatments significantly improved plant performance compared to the control (p < 0.001). Soil drenching was the most effective, producing the highest mean values for root length (16.2 cm), shoot length (27.2 cm), tuber count (8.5 per plant), and SPAD value (46.0). Strong positive correlations were observed among all parameters, particularly between root length and tuber count (r = 0.97). It is recommended that farmers adopt soil drenching as the preferred method of T. harzianum application to improve root development and boost yields. Further research on local strains and formulation optimization is encouraged to support sustainable potato production and food security in Zimbabwe.
- Date
- OCTOBER 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- irish potato
- trichoderma harzianum inoculation
- root development
- Supervisor
- Ms. Kamota
- Item sets
- Department of Crop Sciences
