Integrated Management Strategies for Black Root Rot of Mulberry Caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae

10 June, 2026

Background and Objective: Black root rot of mulberry, caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae, significantly reduces productivity due to rapid root degradation, vascular discoloration and plant mortality. This study aimed to isolate and characterize L. theobromae from infected mulberry roots and evaluate the efficacy of fungal biocontrol agents, synthetic fungicides and commercially available herbal oils against the pathogen under in vitro conditions. Materials and Methods: Infected mulberry roots were collected and used to isolate the pathogen, which was subsequently identified based on morphological and cultural characteristics. The antifungal potential of Trichoderma species, chemical fungicides and essential oils was assessed using standard mycelial inhibition assays. Data were analyzed using ANOVA under a completely randomized design (CRD) and treatment means were compared at a significance level of p<0.05. Results: Among biocontrol agents, Trichoderma harzianum showed the highest mycelial inhibition (72.61%), slightly surpassing T. viride. Hexaconazole was the most effective chemical fungicide with 84.94% mean inhibition, followed by Carbendazim and Propiconazole. Essential oils demonstrated promising eco-friendly activity: Eucalyptus oil achieved 71.33% inhibition, while Cinnamon and Neem oils exhibited substantial dose-dependent effects. Conclusion: The study highlights the potential of combining biological, chemical and herbal approaches for managing black root rot in mulberry. These findings support the development of an integrated disease management strategy to protect mulberry health and productivity, with future research needed to validate field-level efficacy.

International Journal of Agricultural Research - Current Issue

Integrated Management Strategies for Black Root Rot of Mulberry Caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae