Fipronil
Description
Fipronil is a broad-spectrum systemic insecticide that provides effective control of many different types of insect pests. The word 'systemic' means that when you apply it, the product gets absorbed into the plant and moves throughout it, protecting it from the inside. The word 'broad-spectrum' means it works against many different kinds of insects. Fipronil works by affecting the nervous system of insects, causing them to become paralyzed and die. It's effective against a wide range of pests including beetles, caterpillars, ants, termites, and many other insects that can damage your crops. One of the advantages of fipronil is that it has both contact and stomach action, meaning it kills insects when they touch the treated surface or when they eat treated plant parts. It also has good residual activity, which means it continues to work for several days after application, providing ongoing protection. You can apply it in several ways: by spraying it on the leaves, by mixing it into the soil around plant roots, or by treating seeds before planting. When applied to the soil, it provides protection for several weeks. However, it's very important to know that fipronil is highly toxic to bees and other beneficial insects, so you must never spray it when your plants are flowering. Also, it can be harmful to fish and other aquatic life, so be very careful not to let it run off into streams, ponds, or irrigation water. Always wear protective clothing including gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when handling this product. Make sure to wait the required number of days (usually 14-21 days) after spraying before harvesting your crops to ensure they're safe to eat.
Application rates
General
0.1-0.3 liters per hectare
Application method
Target pests
Application timing
When pests are first observed or as preventive treatment. Avoid during flowering.
Safety period
14-21 days before harvest
Precautions
Highly toxic to bees. Do not apply during flowering. Toxic to fish and aquatic life. Wear full protective equipment. Avoid drift to water sources.
Crop compatibility
Benefits
- Broad-spectrum activity against many insect pests
- Systemic action protects entire plant from inside out
- Both contact and stomach action for comprehensive control
- Good residual activity provides ongoing protection
- Multiple application methods (foliar, soil, seed treatment)
- Effective against beetles, caterpillars, ants, and termites
Best for
- Vegetable crops (tomatoes, peppers, eggplants)
- Fruit trees (citrus, date palm, mango)
- Field crops (cotton, corn)
- Crops with multiple pest problems
- Soil pest control applications
Usage tips
- Apply as soil drench or seed treatment for longest protection
- Avoid application during flowering to protect pollinators
- Use lower rates for preventive applications
- Rotate with other insecticide classes to prevent resistance
- Follow local regulations regarding bee protection
- Effective for soil pest control
Storage instructions
Store in original container in cool, dry place. Keep away from food, feed, and water sources. Protect from freezing.
Mixing compatibility
Compatible with most fungicides. Do not mix with alkaline products. Check compatibility before tank mixing.