Enhancing Biotic Stress Tolerance in Soybean Affected by Rhizoctonia solani Root Rot Through an Integrated Approach of Biocontrol Agent and Fungicide.

Rhizoctonia solani causes root rot in soybean, a worldwide severe concern for soybean cultivation. The fungus grows and clogs the xylem tissue of the host plant by producing numerous sclerotia, which results in disease symptoms, such as yellowing of leaves, wilt, and plant death. Overuse of chemical fungicides increases the threat of developing resistance to pathogens, reduces soil productivity, and negatively impacts the health of the soil, the environment, and humans.