Model-Based Experimental Design to Optimize Moroccan Sweet Pepper Cultivation in Nursery: A Comprehensive Study of Phytophthora capsici Management Using Experimental Factorial Design

Abstract

This research addresses the challenge of managing Phytophthora capsici in nurseries, emphasizing an integrated approach for optimal pepper health employing model-based experimental design. The study employs a factorial design and randomized block experiment to manipulate factors such as pathogen inoculum, Trichoderma treatment, and indoor environmental conditions. The factorial design provides insights into the intricate interactions that influence Phytophthora capsici dynamics. By identifying pathogen inoculum thresholds varying the amount [0; 500,000; 1000,000 (CFU/ml)], optimizing Trichoderma concentrations giving the range of [0; 1000; 10,000,000 (CFU/ml)], and assessing the impact of environmental conditions, we can enhance our understanding of biocontrol efficacy. The results offer valuable insights for the development of effective and tailored disease management strategies. The study’s implications extend to efficient resource utilization identifying optimal environmental conditions; T° > 20°C, RH% < 80%, and biocontrol treatment optimal concentration of 10,000,000 CFU/ml for the development of targeted disease management strategies. This research highlights the importance of experimental factorial design in understanding the complexity of Phytophthora communities applying a more flexible structured approach; blocking factors in 3x2 and 2x2x2x2, to improve the accuracy of treatment effect estimation, the results have significant implications for future research in Phytophthora root rot diseases control and monitoring.