Comparative analysis of organic and inorganic compounds conferring ISR to combat Phomopsis vexans

Previous studies have shown the role of several organic & inorganic compounds in boosting plant growth and restricting the disease spread by conferring induced systemic resistance (ISR). Among, biochar is an organic input that has its proven role to improve soil fertility and impart disease resistance. As brinjal is encountered by several biotic and abiotic factors, Phomopsis vexans being one of them which caused phomopsis blight disease and hampered crop performance adequately. In this experiment, the evaluation of different concentrations of inorganic compounds (calcium & zinc salts, fungicides) individually or in combination with biochar were employed to combat the disease and results were analyzed on the basis of improved soil health and biochemical changes. Out of which, a combination of Biochar with Amistar 29.6a.i. provided the best results. In addition, a negative correlation was also reported between disease severity and the level of soluble proteins & total phenols.