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 THORNY
STEM BLIGHT The disease is caused by the
fungus Tunstallia aculeata.
Studies were conducted on the nature of the pathogen,
pathogen city, sporulation, disease development
and control measures. The spread of the disease
was higher when the pruning timing coincided with
the sporulation period. There was also a direct
correlation between root carbohydrate reserves and
disease development. An integrated management strategy
combining replanting with resistant genotype, cultural
control, chemical and biological control measures
was found ideal.
BIOFERTILIZERS
The division is actively engaged in biofertilizer
research. Nitrogen fixing Azospirillum
and phosphate   solubilising
bacteria were isolated from tea soils of southern
India and region specific potential strain were
selected based on laboratory, greenhouse, as well
as field experiments. A technology for their mass
multiplication has been developed. Experiments proved
that composted coir pith is a superior carrier material
compared to the commonly used lignite.
MICROBIOLOGY
Enumeration of microflora (Total Viable Count, Yeast
and Mould) in made tea is regularly carried out.
Now the   division
is also undertaking analysis of made tea for total
coliforms, E. coli and Salmonella. Apart from this,
quality check of bioformulations (biocontrol agents
and biofertilizers) is regularly undertaken. Studies
in relation to factory hygiene are underway. Aerospora
in factory environment is also being studied.
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