Association of Agrometeorologists

Growth performance and fungal infestation under low temperature in Neem and Tulsi

SEEMA BHADAURIA, B.S. KUSHWAH, DIVYA GOYAL and KAUSHAL PRATAP SINGH

Extensive survey and collections of leaves and twigs/stems were made in order to ascertain the incidence of fungi on Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) at Agra, during January 2003. The infected plants showed sudden blackening of leaves followed by drying and shedding. The stems a being nude become darkened and then dried. The dominant fungi were identified to be Alternaria alternata and A.tenuissima in case of Tulsi and A.alternata, Cladosporium sp., Fusarium moniliformes in case of Neem. Later, on drying saprophytic fungi were also recorded viz. Mucor (Tulsi), Erysiphe, Chaetomium Stachybotrys sp. (Neem).

fungal infestation