Complete inhibition of mycelial growth of fungal pathogens of maize by botanicals

Rice husk extract (RHE), bamboo extract (BE) and wood extract (WE) at different concentration levels (0.0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%) were evaluated (in completely randomized design) in vitro as an antagonist to mycelial growth of selected fungal pathogens of maize. Botanical preparations were utilized singly (rice husk, bamboo and wood extracts) and in combinations (RHE x BE, RHE x WE, BE x WE and RHE x BE x WE). RHE at 1.0% concentration and in combination- RHE x BE x WE at 1.5% concentration, completely inhibited mycelial growth of Fusarium solani, Fusarium equiseti, Fusarium verticilloides and Macrophomina phaseolina. Other botanical preparations, either singly or in combinations showed significant (p<0.05) reduction in mycelial growth of the fungal pathogens. Thus, these botanicals have phytofungicidal potentials towards controlling pathogenic fungi of maize, hence, could be useful in the control and management of maize diseases on large scale farming.   Key words: Rice husk, bamboo, wood, extract, maize, mycelial growth, fungal pathogens.