Factors that influence germination and mycoherbicidal activity of Alternaria cassiae

The influences of pH, surfactants, and nutrients on germination were investigated to develop a basis for improvement of Alternaria cassiae mycoherbicide formulations. In vitro results indicated that a formulation with a pH of approximately 6.5 containing 0.1 to 1% Tween 80, 0.02 M potassium phosphate buffer, and 1% dehydrated potato dextrose broth best promoted germination. Sicklepod plants at the 2 to 3 true-leaf stage were sprayed with test solutions, incubated in the dark at 100% relative humidity (28 C) for 6 h, and placed in a growth chamber maintained at 30 C. Assessment of the plants after 2 d indicated that the ability of the formulation components to induce germination of Alternaria cassiae in vitro corresponded well with their ability to improve infection of sicklepod seedlings.