Optimizing Ethylicin Soil Fumigation: Effects of Application Methods and Rates on Soil Dynamics and Field Efficacy in Mangoes

Soil fumigation represents an important strategy for the management of soil-borne diseases that constrain crop productivity. Ethylicin has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional soil fumigants due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. In this study, the effects of different application methods and rates on the emission behavior, spatial distribution, persistence, and control efficacy of ethylicin in soil were systematically evaluated. Controlled soil column experiments demonstrated that soil-mixing at an application rate of 20 g/m2 was the most effective treatment, facilitating rapid downward transport of ethylicin to a depth of 30 cm within 6 h without inducing observable phytotoxic effects. Field trials further indicated that ethylicin-based soil treatment was associated with reduced incidence of mango bacterial black spots and diseases caused by Fusarium spp., Phytophthora spp., and Meloidogyne spp., accompanied by improved growth performance of mango seedlings. Collectively, this study provides experimental evidence and practical insights for optimizing ethylicin-based soil fumigant strategies to enhance disease management efficiency and support crop health.