Metalaxyl
Description
Metalaxyl is a systemic fungicide that provides excellent protection against diseases caused by water molds, which are a type of fungus-like organism. The word 'systemic' means that when you apply it, the product gets absorbed into the plant and moves throughout all parts - leaves, stems, and roots. This is very effective because it protects the entire plant from the inside out. Metalaxyl is particularly effective against diseases like downy mildew, which appears as gray or white fuzzy growth on the underside of leaves, and Phytophthora and Pythium diseases, which cause root rot, damping-off in seedlings, and blight in various crops. These diseases are especially common in wet or humid conditions, which makes metalaxyl very useful in areas with high humidity or frequent rain. You can apply it in several ways: by spraying it on the leaves, by mixing it into the soil, or by treating seeds before planting. When applied to the soil or seeds, it provides protection for several weeks. It's particularly useful for protecting young seedlings from damping-off disease, which can kill them before they even get a chance to grow. You can use it on vegetables, fruits, and field crops. The best way to use metalaxyl is to apply it before you see disease symptoms - this is called preventive spraying. If you already see some disease starting, you can still use it, but it works best when used early. Make sure to wait the required number of days (usually 7-14 days) after spraying before harvesting your crops. Always follow the label instructions and wear protective clothing when using this product.
Application rates
General
0.5-1 kg per hectare
Preventive
0.3-0.5 kg per hectare
Curative
0.8-1.2 kg per hectare
Application method
Target pests
Application timing
Preventive: before disease onset, especially in wet/humid conditions. Curative: at first symptoms.
Safety period
7-14 days before harvest
Precautions
Wear protective equipment. Do not apply in windy conditions. Follow label instructions. Rotate with other fungicides to prevent resistance.
Crop compatibility
Benefits
- Systemic action protects entire plant from inside out
- Highly effective against downy mildew and water mold diseases
- Multiple application methods: foliar, soil, or seed treatment
- Excellent for protecting seedlings from damping-off
- Long residual activity in soil applications
- Essential for humid and wet growing conditions
Best for
- Vegetable crops (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, leafy greens)
- Fruit trees (citrus, date palm, mango)
- Field crops (potatoes, onions, corn)
- Seedlings and young plants
- Crops in humid or wet conditions
Usage tips
- Apply before disease symptoms appear for best results
- Essential for humid coastal areas and rainy seasons
- Use as seed treatment to protect young seedlings
- Combine with protectant fungicides for enhanced control
- Rotate with other fungicide classes to prevent resistance
- Monitor weather conditions - apply before expected rain
Storage instructions
Store in original container in cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container tightly closed. Store away from food, feed, and water sources.
Mixing compatibility
Compatible with most fungicides and insecticides. Often used in combination with protectant fungicides. Check compatibility before tank mixing.