Control of foliar diseases of mustard by Bacillus from reclaimed soil.

Bacillus subtilis strain UK-9, an isolate from reclaimed soils, was studied for its biological control activity against Alternaria leaf spot disease of mustard. In dual culture, production of antifungal metabolites by the bacteria caused morphological alterations of vegetative cells and spores, disruption and lysis of their cell wall. The antagonist reduced spore germination on leaves and disease incidence of the pathogen in plant trial as well as it also demonstrated plant-growth-promoting ability.