Application of a suspension concentrate formulation of Bacillus velezensis to control root rot of hydroponicallygrown vegetables

Bacillus velezensis was isolated from roots of Lactuca sativa var crispa and has been shown to be inhibitory of mycelial growth of Pythium spp root rot pathogens The bacterium was prepared in a suspension concentrate formulation and tested for control of root rot and growth promotion in hydroponicallygrown vegetables Initial results indicated that the suspension concentrate was effective in controlling root rot when applied directly to seedlings of L sativa This efficacy was however nullified when the formulation was applied as a suspension to raise these seedlings This formulation when applied as a drench treatment to seedlings of Brassica campestris var chinensis increased growth of this vegetable The bacterium produced indole3 acetic acid (IAA)