Alpha seed treatment is an effective fungicide used to treat the seeds of a wide variety of crops. This product can be used to treat cereal grains and corn. It can also be used on soybeans, rapeseed, and sunflower seeds. Using this product protects crops from a variety of diseases. To achieve the desired results, it is important to apply the product correctly.
What is included in the composition and dosage form
Alpha has a combined effect, allowing it to be used for a wide range of applications. One liter of the substance contains the following components:
- 100 grams of imazalil;
- 60 grams of tebuconazole.
The product belongs to the imidazole and triazole chemical classes. Based on its mode of penetration, the substance is classified as a systemic pesticide. It is available as a suspension concentrate.
Operating principle
The high effectiveness of the Alpha product is due to the combination of two active components that differ in their effect on the pathogen:
- Imazalil inhibits sterol production in pathogen cell membranes. It inhibits demethylation at position 14 of lanosterol or 24 of methylenedihydrolanosterol. It also induces rupture of fungal membranes.
- Tebuconazole inhibits ergosterol production in the cell membranes of pathogens. This substance helps prevent the development of external and internal infections in seed material. This component protects crops from septoria leaf spot, common smut, loose smut, and helminthosporiosis.
The main advantages of the substance include the following:
- reliable protection against a range of pathogens affecting all cereal plants, which are transmitted through planting material and soil;
- pronounced growth-regulating effect, ensuring intensive and uniform root growth;
- absence of phytotoxic effect when dosage is observed;
- ease of use;
- low risk of developing resistance – due to the presence of imazalil in the composition;
- control over the activity of pythium mushrooms.
Instructions for use
It is recommended to treat seeds with the Alpha fungicide 1-2 weeks before planting. Treatment is carried out using a semi-wet mechanical method. To soak the seeds, prepare a working solution. This is a dilution of the concentrate in water. 400 milliliters of the solution is required per 1 ton of seed.
To prepare the working solution, measure out the required amount of Alpha and mix it with half the total volume of the solution. Before measuring out the suspension, it is recommended to shake the container well. This will ensure even distribution of the mixture particles.
After this, pour the remaining half of the water into the treatment tank and add the prepared primary solution. It's important to stir the mixture constantly. The mixture should be used immediately after dilution.
Precautionary measures
All work with the product must be carried out according to the instructions. To avoid negative consequences, follow these recommendations:
- restrict access to the work area for unauthorized people and animals;
- use special clothing;
- use personal protective equipment – rubber gloves, respirator, glasses;
- carry out work in a mechanized manner, using pickling machines;
- Dispose of used containers and waste solution in accordance with the requirements for the disposal of hazardous chemicals.
When handling semen, do not eat, drink, or smoke. If signs of intoxication appear, the victim should be taken to fresh air and given an absorbent. If any health problems occur, seek medical attention immediately.
How and how long can it be stored?
Keep the container with the concentrated solution out of the reach of children and pets. Keep the solution away from food and animal feed. Do not place the container near heating devices. Also, keep it out of direct sunlight. The shelf life of Alpha seed treatment is 3 years.
What to replace it with
If necessary, this substance can be replaced with other seed treatments. The most effective alternatives include "Scarlet" and "Tebuzil."
Alpha is an effective seed treatment that protects cereals and many other crops from dangerous infections. It's important to strictly adhere to the dosage. Adherence to safety precautions during application is also crucial.