Green solutions for bacterial wilt: Harnessing botanicals and soil amendments in tomato production

This study evaluated the efficacy of botanical extracts and soil amendments in managing bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum in tomato production. Ralstonia solanacearum samples were isolated from infected to-mato samples and characterized morphologically and biochemically . Ten invasive weed species were screened for antimicrobial activity against five Ralstonia solanacearum isolates. Chromolaena odorata and Cynodon dac-tylon extracts exhibited potent antimicrobial properties, with inhibition ranges of 6-14 mm on nutrient agar plates and a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 250 μl/ml. Field trials with soil amendments enriched with selected botanicals resulted in significant improvements in plant growth parameters, including a 15% increase in plant height and a 20% increase in healthy leaves per plant. Disease severity was reduced by 70% compared to the control group. Soil analysis revealed a 25% increase in organic matter content and improved nutrient availa-bility in the amended soil. Pathogen incidence on tomato plants decreased by 60% in the amended soil. Multiplex PCR identified four Ralstonia solanacearum phylotypes, with phylotype I and IV widely distributed, while phylo-type II and III were predominant in specific regions. These findings contribute to the development of sustainable management strategies for bacterial wilt, promoting environmentally friendly practices in tomato production, and enhancing global food security. Key words: Bacterial wilt, Botanical extracts, Cameroon, Chromolaena odorata, Cyanodon dactylon, Ralstonia solanacearum