The over-use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers has resulted in favoring the selection of resistant plant pathogens and the reduction of soil fertility. Eco-friendly alternatives such as the use of biocontrol agents and biofertilizers should be practiced as substitutes to the synthetic chemicals in this present day. The use of fungi such as Trichoderma species as biocontrol agents has been widely practiced in forestry and industrial agriculture. Biocontrol agents are effective against many pathogenic fungi and benefit immensely in growth, health, and productivity of plants. They are also relatively less harmful as they are obtained from natural derivatives when compared to synthetic pesticides. Likewise, biofertilizers enable nitrogen fixation, solubilization of soil phosphates, and production of plant growth substances in the soil improving the soil health and fertility. The article reviews in detail the various beneficial aspects of Trichoderma species as biocontrol agent and biofertilizers as they are claimed as an effective and successful commercial agent in controlling various plant diseases and promote plant growth.
Key words: Agriculture, Biocontrol agent, Biofertilizer, Fungi, Trichoderma sp.
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