Sustainable Disease Management: Evaluating Natural Alternatives for Powdery Mildew Control in Cucumbers
Anusha M. Nayak *
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
Farooqkhan
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
Tharana Poonacha T.
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
Ismail Sohaib
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
Poojashree
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
Tanuja S.
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
Arti
ICAR-AICRP on Small Millets, PC Unit, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, Karnataka, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Powdery mildew, caused by Podosphaera xanthii, is a significant disease impacting cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) crops, leading to major yield losses. The study evaluates the efficacy of botanicals and biostimulants in managing powdery mildew under in vitro conditions. Treatments were tested at three concentrations (5, 7.5 and 10%) against P. xanthii. Results revealed that the efficacy of treatments increased with concentration, with Ascophyllum nodosum (seaweed extract), Mimosa pudica (touch-me-not) and Osmium sanctum (tulasi) demonstrating the highest inhibition rates at 10%. These findings suggest the potential of eco-friendly alternatives for managing powdery mildew in cucumber.
Keywords: Powdery mildew, cucumber, Podosphaera xanthii, botanicals, biostimulants, eco-friendly management