Time to use fazor in root crops
Carrot and parsnip growers are informed that the time for applying Fazor (maleic hydrazide) to root crops to suppress re-growth and to help maintain quality is fast approaching. In response to many enquiries from the field and as part of the product stewardship responsibilities, it is confirmed that Fazor has a new SOLA for use in outdoor carrot and parsnip, issued on the 7th September 2007.
Growers should be aware that the new application rate is 8 kg product/ha for both carrots and parsnip. Applications rates were previously 15 kg product/ha for carrots and 10 kg product/ha for parsnips and have been reduced as a result of EU Annex I listing of maleic hydrazide. The EU has set a provisional MRL for maleic hydrazide of 30 mg/kg in carrots, which is no change from the current UK MRL.
Growers will need to obtain a copy of the new notice of approval to use Fazor in carrots and parsnips via the PSD web site, ADAS offices, the HDC or NFU. The new SOLA reference number for Fazor on outdoor carrots and parsnips is COP 2006/01115 PP. Fazor can be used in carrots and parsnips up until December 2013.
Fazor should be applied using a conventional hydraulic sprayer when the crop foliage is mature, but not actively growing. It is better that applications are made slightly later rather than earlier, as this can cause yield reduction if the canopy is not mature. This is typically from mid October onwards when the crop has 5-25% leaf yellowing or necrosis and when the crop begins to lean. Application timing should be judged on a crop by crop basis but must be before the first frost. Fazor should not be applied less than 3 weeks before harvest. If the crop is to be over-wintered, at least 4 days should be allowed after application before topping or covering the crop for frost protection.
Fazor inhibits respiration and suppresses cell division in the crop and this stops development of the whole top growth and of external lateral root hairs in the following spring. As root hairs grow, the plant normally metabolises sugars and consequently quality is affected. Fazor reduces this process and helps to maintain the taste, tenderness and processing quality of the over-wintered root crop.
In parsnips, Fazor reduces woody core and glazing in late-lifted crops thereby optimising market value. Prolonging the time that carrots and parsnips can be left in the ground and extending the lifting period means that loading into pack houses is spread out and the season is extended for locally supplied produce. It means that the supermarkets can source supplies of home grown UK root vegetables more easily.
In carrots and parsnips, Fazor is recommended at a dose rate of 8 kg/ha in 350-500 litres of water per hectare, with a maximum number of applications of 1 per crop. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application may reduce effectiveness. It can be used in conjunction with black polythene for in-field storage.
Fazor has successfully been through the Annex III re-registration process and is now fully re-registered in the UK. Fazor contains 60% w/w maleic hydrazide, formulated as a water-soluble granule and is packed in a 2.5 kg bag. It is recommended on second earlies and maincrop potatoes and bulb onions. It has SOLAs in parsnips, carrots, garlic and shallots.
