Soil-Free Origins, Root-Deep Impact: Unlocking the Power of Native, Non-rhizosphere TrichodermaIsolates in Plant Growth and Yield under Agrochemical Environments

This study investigates the compatibility of native non-rhizosphere Trichoderma isolates with agrochemicals and their impact on nutrient uptake and plant growth in tomato. Native isolates, particularly PSV and GMV, exhibited higher compatibility with agrochemicals compared to a commercial isolate, potentially due to their tolerance to chemical toxicity or the specific nature of the agrochemicals. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to assess the effects of three Trichoderma treatments—seed treatment (T1), combined seed and soil application (T2), and soil application (T3)—on tomato growth and nutrient content. T2 was the most effective treatment, leading to significant improvements in growth and nutrient uptake, particularly in iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn), with PSV and SMV isolates being the most beneficial. Among these, PSV notably enhanced growth and fruit yield. The results highlight the potential of native non-rhizosphere Trichoderma spp. to promote nutrient uptake, improve plant biomass, and mitigate the adverse effects of soil-borne pathogens, suggesting their role as a sustainable biocontrol agent. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of Integrated Disease Management (IDM) in reducing agrochemical reliance, with native Trichoderma isolates, especially PSV, identified as promising candidates for future field trials focused on both biocontrol and growth enhancement.