Basal Stem Rot Control in Oil Palm

Basal stem rot in oil palm, predominantly caused by the fungus Ganoderma boninense, poses a significant challenge in oil palm cultivation, particularly in later crop generations.

PRIMA Agro Tech has developed a multi-faceted solution to address this issue, harnessing the capabilities of Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Streptomyces thermovulgaris.

These microorganisms work in concert to antagonise the pathogen, enhance soil health, and bolster the oil palm’s natural defences. This approach not only directly combats the disease but also supports the overall vitality and productivity of the oil palm, offering a sustainable and effective strategy for managing basal stem rot.

About the Plant Disease

Basal stem rot control in oil palm is critically important, especially as the disease, caused by Ganoderma boninense, tends to escalate in severity in subsequent crop generations. Early detection is challenging due to the subtlety of initial symptoms, and the pathogen’s ability to survive in soil, on plant stumps, and its transmission through insect vectors add to the complexity of managing this disease.

Pathogen(s)

Ganoderma boninense is a formidable pathogen in oil palm cultivation, known for its soil-borne nature and persistence on plant remnants. The fungus’s ability to spread through various means, including insect vectors, makes it a persistent threat. The increased attack rate in subsequent crop generations highlights the need for effective and sustainable management strategies.

Symptoms & Damage

Symptoms of basal stem rot in oil palm manifest differently depending on the plant’s age:

In Young Plants: Leaves partially turn yellow, and new leaves are shorter than usual, indicating a disruption in normal growth
In Producing Plants: Leaves appear pale, with an accumulation of spear leaves. Subsequently, the crown starts to die, beginning with the oldest leaves, which may still hang on the stem, indicating advanced disease progression

Microbial Consortium

PRIMA Agro Tech offers a comprehensive solution to combat basal stem rot in oil palm, utilising a blend of microorganisms. This integrated approach not only targets the immediate threat of Ganoderma boninense but also fosters a healthier soil ecosystem, enhancing the resilience and productivity of oil palm crops.

Trichoderma harzianum: This fungus is effective in antagonising endophytes against Ganoderma boninense. It directly competes with the pathogen, reducing its ability to infect the oil palm.

Bacillus subtilis: Acting as a biocontrol agent, this bacterium produces chitinolytic enzymes that degrade the cell walls of Ganoderma boninense. It also modifies the host plant environment through cellulolytic enzymes, accelerating the decomposition of cellulose fibres in empty oil palm bunches, creating a conducive environment for beneficial microbes.

Pseudomonas fluorescens: This bacterium enhances macronutrient availability by dissolving phosphate and producing natural indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a growth hormone that stimulates plant development.

Streptomyces thermovulgaris: Another bacterium, Streptomyces thermovulgaris increases macronutrients by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and producing natural IAA. It also generates ligninolytic enzymes, which play a role in degrading environmental lignin pollutants.

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