Application of seed coating with endophytic bacteria for Fusarium wilt disease reduction and growth promotion in tomato

Abstract

Tomato seed coating with endophytic bacteria (SuRW02) was used to control Fusarium wilt disease of tomato and stimulated plant growth in field conditions. Results showed that seed coating with isolate SuRW02 reduced disease incidence and severity which similar to seed coating with chemical fungicide (Captan). Seed coating with endophytic bacteria and Captan showed disease incidences of 38 and 25% and disease severity indices of 0.37 and 0.25, respectively. Uncoated seeds and seed coating without endophytic bacteria had a disease incidences of 70 and 50% and disease severity indices of 2.00 and 1.25, respectively. In addition, seed coating with endophytic bacteria promoted tomato plant growth and quality of tomato production.