Trichoderma harzianum is a naturally occurring fungus, which is used as a biofungicide to protect crops from root-rot and wilt diseases caused by other harmful fungi (Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, Botrytis, etc). The T. harzianum when applied during early stages of growth of crops displaces the disease-causing fungi from plants roots (establishes as a barrier) and also extends the rooting zone of the plant due to its colonization of the rhizosphere soil. The T. harzianum also produces hydrolytic enzymes like chitinases, which dissolves the cell wall of the pathogenic fungi and there by inactivates them.  

The mulberry cuttings are dipped in the T. harzianum solution before planting and uniform spraying on the crop is also undertaken during the early stages of growth. This product is one of the best and eco-friendly ways of root-rot disease control for mulberry especially in the high yielding varieties, which are prone to the attack of this fungus. In addition to the disease control, this fungus is also known to produce hemicellulolytic enzymes (which facilitate organic matter decomposition) and also helps in solubilization of phosphate and micronutrients (this stimulates plant growth). It has also been established that T. harzianum does not interfere with the activity of mycorrhizae or nitrogen-fixing bacteria. There are no expected health risks from use of products containing T. harzianum as active ingredient. However, during manufacturing the workers are recommended to wear goggles, long sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, socks and respirators to protect eyes, skin and lungs as the other inert ingredients of the product are know to cause eye and skin irritation and lung effects in a few people.  

The Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Mysore has standardized the mass production and quality control methods for the biofungicide. The product can be manufactured using locally available plant, machinery and raw materials. The shelf life of the product is six months under refrigeration (4^oC). Tests at field level in the Regional  Sericultural Research Stations and farmers' field have shown an overall improvement in the health of the mulberry crop and yields. 

List of Plant & Machinery: Gyrator Shaker, S.S. Mixing Drum, Incubator Shaker, Deep freezer, Autoclaves, Electronic Balances, Hot Air Oven, Laminar Air Flow, Refrigerator, Polythene Bag Sealing Machine, Research Microscope, Mis. Laboratory Equipments.