Trichodermas are a genus of filamentous fungi commonly found in soil and decaying materials. Recognized for their multiple benefits, these microorganisms have become a valuable resource in agriculture and biotechnology.

They belong to the family Hypocreaceae and are present in a wide variety of environments. They are known for their ability to rapidly colonize different substrates, which allows them to compete effectively with other microorganisms.

Most important characteristics of trichodermas

Rapid Colonization Capacity

Trichodermas are able to rapidly colonize diverse substrates. This characteristic allows them to establish themselves and compete effectively in different environments, especially in soil and decaying materials.

Hydrolytic Enzyme Production

They produce a wide variety of hydrolytic enzymes, such as cellulases, xylanases and chitinases, which enable them to break down complex organic matter. This is crucial for the release of nutrients into the soil and the bioconversion of residues.

Antagonism Against Pathogens

They have the ability to antagonize a variety of plant pathogens. They achieve this through several mechanisms:

• Competition for Nutrients and SpaceTrichodermas compete directly with pathogens for available resources.
• Production of Antimicrobial MetabolitesThey secrete antibiotics and other compounds that inhibit the growth of pathogens.
• MycoparasitismSome species can directly parasitize other pathogenic fungi, decomposing them and using them as a source of nutrients.

Plant Growth Stimulation

They promote plant growth and development through:

• Improved Nutrient AbsorptionIncreases the availability and absorption of essential plant nutrients.
• Root DevelopmentStimulate root growth, improving the ability of plants to absorb water and nutrients.
• Induction of Systemic ResistanceThey help plants to activate their natural defenses against diseases.

Adaptability to Diverse Environments

They can adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions. This allows them to survive and function in different types of soils and climates, making them useful in diverse agricultural regions.

Production of Secondary Metabolites

They generate a variety of secondary metabolites that have antibacterial, antifungal and plant growth promoting properties. These compounds can be exploited for the development of agricultural and pharmaceutical products.

Capacity to Decompose Organic Matter

They are effective in the decomposition of organic matter, which contributes to the improvement of soil structure and nutrient recycling. This is especially useful in agricultural waste management and compost production.

Use in Biotechnology

Due to their ability to produce enzymes and other bioactive compounds, trichodermas are widely used in biotechnological processes, such as biofuel production, waste bioconversion and the manufacture of industrial products.

Safety and Environmental Compatibility

Trichodermas are generally considered safe and environmentally compatible, making them ideal for use in sustainable agricultural practices and integrated pest management.

Benefits of trichodermas

Disease Protection

Trichodermas have a role in protecting plants from fungi and bacteria that can damage them. Trichodermas do this in several ways:

• Occupying Space and Resources: They quickly establish themselves in the soil and consume the nutrients that pathogens need, leaving them with no resources to grow.
• Producing Natural Antibiotics: They secrete substances that can kill or inhibit pathogens.
• Directly Attacking Pathogens: Some trichodermas can directly attack and destroy pathogenic fungi, preventing them from damaging plants.

Plant Growth Promotion

Trichodermas not only protect plants, they also help them grow strong and healthy:

• Improved Nutrient Absorption: They help plant roots more efficiently absorb nutrients from the soil.
• Stronger Root Development: Stimulates the growth of larger, healthier roots, improving the plants’ ability to obtain water and nutrients.
• Growth Hormones: Some trichodermas produce substances that function as growth hormones, promoting more vigorous plant development.

Soil Quality Improvement

Trichodermas are excellent decomposers of organic matter, which greatly benefits the soil:

• Organic Waste Decomposition: Transforms plant debris and other organic materials into plant-available nutrients.
• Improved Soil Structure: By decomposing organic matter, they help improve soil structure, facilitating water retention and aeration.

Increased Plant Resilience

Trichodermas can make plants more resistant to diseases, acting as a kind of natural vaccine:

• Systemic Resistance: They help to activate the natural defenses of plants, making them stronger against future infections and pathogen attacks.

Reduction in the Use of Chemical Pesticides

Thanks to their ability to protect plants and improve the soil, trichodermas reduce the need for chemical pesticides:

• Natural and Ecological Method: Using them is an environmentally friendly way to protect your crops, helping to maintain a healthy balance in the agricultural ecosystem.

Versatility in its application

They can be applied in several ways, depending on the specific needs of your crops:

• Seed Treatment: Inoculate seeds with trichodermas to protect seedlings from the beginning.
• Direct Soil Application: Add directly to the soil to improve soil health and combat pathogens.
• Foliar Treatment: Apply a solution of trichodermas on the leaves to protect them from diseases.

How are trichodermas applied in agriculture?

Seed Treatment

Seeds are treated with a trichoderma suspension before sowing. This can be done by dipping them in a solution containing the trichodermas or by coating them with a trichoderma powder. The benefits of this type of application are:

• Early Protection: Protects seedlings from the moment they germinate.
• Better Establishment: Helps seedlings establish faster and healthier.

Direct Soil Application

Trichodermas can be added directly to the soil in the form of granules, powder or in a liquid suspension. They can be applied during soil preparation or together with irrigation. The advantages of this type of application are:

• Soil Improvement: Helps to decompose organic matter and improve soil structure.
• Soil Pathogen Control: Provides a protective barrier against soil-borne pathogens.

Foliar Treatment

A solution containing trichodermas is applied directly on the leaves of the plants using a sprayer. These are the advantages of this application system:

• Leaf Protection: Helps protect leaves against fungal and bacterial diseases.
• Improves Resistance: It can induce systemic resistance, strengthening the plant’s natural defenses.

Incorporation in Compost

They can be mixed with the compost during its preparation. This can be done by adding a suspension of trichodermas to the compost heap or by sprinkling a powder containing them.

• Accelerated Decomposition: Helps accelerate the decomposition of organic matter, producing a more nutrient-rich compost.
• Compost Enrichment: Increases the beneficial microbial content of the compost, improving its quality.

Drip Irrigation

They can also be applied through the drip irrigation system, dissolving the product in the irrigation water. The advantages of its application by drip irrigation are:

• Uniform Distribution: Ensures uniform distribution of trichodermas in the soil.
• Water Use Efficiency: Allows its application together with irrigation, saving time and resources.

Incorporation in growing media

Trichodermas are mixed with the growing medium before planting. This is common in nurseries and greenhouses. The advantages of incorporating them in substrates are:

• Controlled Environment: Provides a controlled and healthy environment for the initial development of plants.
• Integral Protection: Ensures that plants are protected from the start in an enriched growing medium.

Trichodermas are a valuable resource for farmers, helping to protect crops from disease, improve plant growth, enrich the soil and reduce reliance on chemicals. By integrating them into agricultural practices, farmers can achieve healthier and more sustainable crops.