Spirotetramat belongs to the new neonicotinoid class of insecticides, primarily used to control pests with piercing-sucking mouthparts such as aphids, whiteflies, thrips, and mites. So, which pesticides should not be mixed with spirotetramat? Let's find out.
Which Pesticides Should Not Be Mixed with Spirotetramat?
1. Incompatible Pesticides
Spirotetramat is a slightly acidic insecticide and should not be mixed with alkaline agents such as Bordeaux mixture, lime sulfur, or copper-based fungicides. Mixing these can lead to chemical reactions that may cause phytotoxicity or reduce efficacy. Spirotetramat has high insecticidal activity; therefore, avoid increasing the dosage excessively. Continuous use of the same pesticide can lead to pest resistance. To delay resistance development, alternate with pesticides that have different modes of action.
2. Applications of Spirotetramat
Here are common methods for applying spirotetramat:
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Foliar Spray: This is the most common method for spirotetramat application. It is suitable for early-stage infestations of pests like aphids, whiteflies, and thrips. Apply directly to the foliage.
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Seed Dressing: For wheat seed dressing, dilute 35% spirotetramat floating seed dressing agent at a ratio of 1:200. After drying, sow the seeds to prevent underground pests such as wireworms, click beetles, mole crickets, leatherjackets, and onion maggots. It also provides some control against later-stage thrips and aphids.
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Soil Treatment: Use spirotetramat granules during planting to prevent underground pests. The effectiveness lasts for over 3 months.
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Root Irrigation: Spirotetramat is water-soluble and has strong systemic properties. Direct root irrigation, such as during the initial emergence of onion maggots, shows good control efficacy.
3. Usage Methods of Spirotetramat
Here are specific usage rates for various pests:
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Citrus Leafminer: Spray 25% spirotetramat at a dilution of 3000-4000 times per acre, or mix 25-33 ml of 25% spirotetramat per 100 liters of water.
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Pear Psylla: Spray 25% spirotetramat at a dilution of 10,000 times per acre, or mix 10 ml of 25% spirotetramat per 100 liters of water.
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Apple Aphid: Spray 25% spirotetramat at a dilution of 5000-10,000 times per acre, or mix 10-20 ml of 25% spirotetramat per 100 liters of water.
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Melon Whitefly: Spray 25% spirotetramat at a dilution of 2500-5000 times.
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Grape Scale Insect: Begin spraying during the crawling or early stage of scale insects with 25% spirotetramat at a dilution of 4000-5000 times per acre.
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Rice Planthopper: Use 1.6-3.2 grams of 25% spirotetramat water dispersible granules per acre during the initial stage of nymph occurrence. Spray 30-40 liters per acre directly onto the leaves for quick translocation throughout the rice plant.
Important Considerations
The above information provides a detailed guide on which pesticides should not be mixed with spirotetramat. When using spirotetramat, ensure to follow the dilution ratios specified in the product label. Additionally, avoid mixing with alkaline agents and store in environments between 0°C and 35°C.