RESTRICTIONS on a leading fungicidal seed treatment have now been lifted, allowing the product to be used on spring sown wheat and barley, with immediate effect.
RESTRICTIONS on a leading fungicidal seed treatment have now been lifted, allowing the product to be used on spring sown wheat and barley, with immediate effect.
For the past year, Rancona® i-MIX has been restricted to autumn use only, preventing treated seed from being planted after January 31.
Now, the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) has lifted the constraint, meaning growers can use the dual-purpose fungicide throughout the year to combat a range of soil-borne diseases in both wheat and barley.
Business Development Manager for UPL UK & IE, David Ramdhian, said: “Regaining spring use on Rancona i-MIX is a huge bonus for growers, who will be looking for added reassurance for the large volume of spring sown cereals planned, following the inclement weather and therefore difficult drilling conditions we experienced in the autumn.
“Crop establishment is more important than ever this spring, and with limited dual-purpose fungicide seed treatments available, we are delighted with this timely decision to allow spring use on wheat and barley seed this coming season.”
Rancona i-MIX contains imazalil – an active ingredient known for its premium control of leaf stripe. This is combined with ipconazole, which offers effective control of Microdochium nivale, as well as loose smut.
The new label now also includes the suppression of ergot germination- a fungus becoming more problematic in seed.
UPL Technical Lead for Seed Treatments, Rob Adamson, said: “Ergot has become of increasing concern over recent years due to the prevalence of blackgrass - which can act as a host for the pathogen. By treating any particles in seed, we can reduce the spread of fungal spores.”
The benefits of Rancona i-MIX go beyond just disease control. Thanks to the innovative micro emulsion (ME) formulation, it boasts 125 times more surface contact compared to a flowable formulation. This results in superior active substance distribution on the seed and improved contact with pathogens.
The ME formulation also reduces dust
levels to an industry leading low, improving seed handling and creating a better
operator working environment at the plant or during drilling.
Rancona i-MIX is manufactured by global crop protection company, UPL. For more
information, visit www.upl-ltd.com/uk
