DOI: 10.32649/ajas.2026.193171 ISSN: 1992-7479

Integrated Use of Thyme Oil and Zinc and Copper Oxide Nanoparticles in Protecting Watermelon Seedlings Against Fusarium Falciforme Infections

A. Q. Muzher, K. W. Ibade
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This study evaluated the efficacy of wild thyme oil (Thymus spp.) and Syrian thyme oil (Thymus syriacus L.) along with zinc and copper oxides in their regular and nano forms, and their combination, in reducing the severity of fungal infection in watermelon seedlings Citrullus lanatus (Thumb) caused by the pathogenic Fusarium falciforme (Bank Number PX128765). The effects of the treatments on several growth indicators and plant chemical properties were investigated. The results revealed that all treatments significantly reduced infection severity compared to the fungal infection treatment. The seed-soaking treatment combined with wild olive oil at a concentration of 0.75 ml L−1, along with irrigation using zinc oxide and nano-copper solutions applied after planting and again at 7 and 14 days, achieved the highest reductions in infection severity at 10.3% and 11.8%, respectively. In comparison, Syrian thyme oil combined with zinc oxide and nano-copper solutions at the same intervals resulted in 20.5% and 10.2% reductions, respectively, compared to the treatment for pathogen infection, which demonstrated a severity of 74.1%. The impact was positive on the fresh and dry weights of the shoot and root systems. The agents used were effective in inducing systemic resistance in watermelon plants by increasing the activity of peroxidase enzymes and the level of phenols in plant leaves. The results indicate the potential of wild and Syrian oils and metal oxide nanoparticles as effective and sustainable means for the integrated management of fungal diseases in watermelon crops

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