The Journal of Phytopharmacology, 2021;10(4):236-241 ; DOI:10.31254/phyto.2021.10404
In-vitro Activity of Selected Plant Extracts on Post-Harvest Pathogens Causing Tomato Fruit Rot
1. Department of Agricultural Resource Management, University of Embu, P.O. Box 6 – 60100, Embu, Kenya
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Received: 2nd January, 2021 / Published : 1st March, 2021
Most researchers have majored on research to improve tomato production while neglecting post-harvest issues. Control of the post-harvest diseases in tomato is by use of synthetic pesticides. However, current research shows that pesticides are toxic with long residue effect. Some of the products are rejected in the market due to high chemical residue levels resulting to losses. A sustainable solution to this problem can be obtained from bio-controls that are environmental friendly. In this study, three different crude plant extracts (ginger rhizomes, neem leaves and garlic bulbs) were evaluated in-vitro at different concentrations for the control of pathogens causing tomato post-harvest rots. The used concentrations were: 1, 2, and 3mg/ml. The isolated and identified pathogen species used in this study were Fusarium, Rhizopus, and Geotrichum. Pathogen growth media (Potato Dextrose Agar) were amended with the different concentrations of the selected crude plant extracts and the pathogens introduced into the media. Radial growth of the fungal pathogens was measured at an interval of twenty four hours after the second day for seven days and was compared with the control. Results showed that all extracts’ concentrations had antimicrobial effect against the test pathogens with garlic having the highest bio-control activity. However, the antimicrobial effect varied with the concentration and the plant species. From the study it is evident that plant extracts can be used as safe alternatives for management of post-harvest rot causing pathogens in tomato fruits thus safeguarding the human health and the environment.
Pathogens, Tomato fruit, Inhibition, Post-harvest, Plant extracts.
HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE
Mugao LG. In-vitro Activity of Selected Plant Extracts on Post-Harvest Pathogens Causing Tomato Fruit Rot. J Phytopharmacol 2021; 10(4):236- 241. doi: 10.31254/phyto.2021.10404
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