Impact of synthetic chemicals and botanicals on bacterial leaf streak disease and wheat productivity parameters

The study evaluated various chemicals and phytoextracts against bacterial leaf streak disease in wheat and assessed their impact on agronomic traits. Chemicals (300, 500, 600 ppm) and plant extracts (1%, 2%, 3%) were tested in vitro and in greenhouse trials. Field trials used the most effective concentration (600 ppm) in combination. Lab trials recorded inhibition zones at 24, 48, and 72 h, with Oxyrich (18.32 mm) and Neem (16.45 mm) showing the highest efficacy. Neem consistently outperformed other phytoextracts, with inhibition zones of 15.62 mm after 72 h. Greenhouse results revealed the combination of Oxyrich and Neem had the lowest disease incidence (17.62%) compared to control (55%). Field trials supported this, with disease incidence reduced to 17.95%. Oxyrich at 600 ppm yielded the best plant growth metrics, including root length (48.65 cm) and 100-grain weight (16.07 g). Neem extracts also significantly improved agronomic traits by managing bacterial leaf streak.