Impact of physical factors on bio-control potential of Lawsonia inermis leaf extract and bio-formulations as fungicides

The present study is carried out to ascertain the effect of different physical factors (sunlight, temperature, pH) and storage conditions on the antimicrobial efficacy of Lawsonia inermis leaf extracts and bio-formulation against the Alternaria alternata. In addition, the phytotoxic potential of 100% alcoholic crude extract as well as the acetone fraction of young leaves of Lawsonia inermis was also checked on seed germination of chilli (Capsicum annuum). Results showed that there was no adverse effect of wet heat (50–100 °C) and dry heat (40–90 °C) on extract and bio-formulation efficacy. Storage for 6 and 12 months had no adverse effect on extract and bio-formulation efficacy and the antifungal activity was observed similar to freshly prepared extract. We have used concentrations of 5,10, 15, 20 and 25 mg/ml to perform a phytotoxicity assay. The measurement of phytotoxicity was done by using the Standard blotter method and the result revealed that 5, 10 and 15 mg/ml concentration of the extract was non phytotoxic and were further used for in vivo experiments. These plant extracts and bio-formulations have extensive antimicrobial potential to be explored for application in sustainable agriculture.