If UK growers are looking to use their favourite protectant fungicide in potatoes, Interfarm UK Ltd are reminding them that they can choose between one of two liquid formulations of mancozeb, Quell Flo and Laminator. Both are suspension concentrates of mancozeb and are registered for the same crop range as Dithane products.
"Dithane is highly regarded and well recognised as the standard treatment for protecting potatoes crops, particularly in seasons when blight pressure is low to medium, as we are seeing so far this year. Whilst there is only limited availability of the dry formulations of Dithane (Dithane NT and Dithane 945), the liquid formulations of mancozeb, Quell Flo and Laminator are made from the same manufacturing source as Dithane and are freely available to UK growers," explains Dr. David Stormonth, Technical Manager for Interfarm UK Ltd.
"Quell Flo/Laminator are highly suitable for use on potatoes for the control of potato blight and offer the same highly cost-effective protection, the same rainfastness and the same tank-mixing ability that growers are used to. But they offer the advantage of an easy-to-use flowable formulation, perhaps more acceptable to those who prefer liquid formulations over dry formulations. As liquid formulations, they are easily introduced into the spray hopper and disperse well in the spray tank, with no problems of dust," says David.
David advises that when used at the recommended dose rate of 3.3 l/ha, Quell Flo/Laminator deliver 1501 gms a.i/ha of mancozeb, equivalent to 2 kg/ha of Dithane NT.
"Water volumes should aim to give good even coverage of the crop. These fungicides can be applied at 7 days intervals, with no maximum spray numbers and have a Harvest Interval of 7 days. They also have a range of useful tank mixes, making them particularly flexible to use."
Quell Flo/Laminator contain 455g/L mancozeb formulated as a suspension concentrate and are packed in 10 litre containers to treat 3 hectares of potatoes. They are approved for use in potatoes, winter and spring wheat and winter oilseed rape. They have no LERAP. Both products have SOLAs for use on onions, shallots, grassland and poppies.
For further comment and information, please contact Dr. David Stormonth, Technical Manager, Interfarm UK Ltd. on 01354 741414 or 07818 036506 (mobile) or via e-mail david.stormonth@interfarm.co.uk
