"Actofit" is an effective biological insecticide used to kill pests. It can be used on agricultural plants, ornamental plants, and indoor flowers. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It kills aphids, spider mites, cutworms, and Colorado potato beetles. For the product to be effective, it must be used correctly.
Active ingredient and release form
The active component of the substance is avermectin C. Thus, the drug includes the following components:
- 0.5% proxanol CL;
- 59.5% solution of avermectin C extract;
- 0.2% aversectin C;
- 40% polyethylene oxide 400.
Aversectin C concentrate, produced through microbiological synthesis, is a naturally occurring product. Naturally occurring avermectins have a highly specific action and act on the nervous system of parasites, causing their death.
The product is produced as a clear liquid with a yellow-brown or light yellow tint. It is sold in 10-milliliter glass bottles, small 40-milliliter sachets, 200- and 900-milliliter plastic bottles, and 4.5-liter canisters. At subzero temperatures, there is a risk of sediment forming in the form of a thick gel.
Mechanism of action
The product works by blocking neuromuscular impulses. The compound then attacks the pest's entire nervous system. The insects then become paralyzed and unable to move, resulting in their death. The product is natural and poses no threat to humans, birds, animals, or worms.
The composition is considered effective even in small quantities. However, an overdose can cause harm to plants. To enhance the effect, it is recommended to add a small amount of pH-neutral shampoo to the prepared solution. Use half a teaspoon of the product per 10 liters of the composition.
The main advantages of the insecticide include the following:
- highly effective against a large number of parasites, including ticks;
- absence of negative impact on the environment – this is due to the biological origin of the substance;
- possibility of use in hot weather;
- possibility of application in a short period of time before harvesting;
- Possibility of use in closed ground and for treating indoor plants.
Purpose
The product has a wide range of uses. It can be used to treat garden plants or spray indoor crops. This is due to its complete safety for humans. The product does not contain any synthetic poisons or toxic components.
The maximum effect can be achieved by targeting the following parasites:
- aphid;
- thrips;
- moth;
- Colorado beetle;
- cabbage white butterfly;
- mite;
- nematode;
- codling moth.
Rules for using the insecticide "Aktofit"
Plants should be treated with Actofit in dry, clear weather. If rain is forecast, it's best to postpone application. Any type of sprayer can be used. After application, chewing pests stop moving and feeding within 4-8 hours, and sucking pests within 8-16 hours. Spraying should preferably be done at temperatures above 18 degrees Celsius. The last application should be a couple of days before harvest.
"Aktofit" can be used during the growing season. It is used for prevention or when pests appear. To make the working solution, combine the concentrate with a small amount of water—200 milliliters. Then mix the ingredients thoroughly and add clean water to obtain the required volume.
The table shows the norms for using the substance for various crops:
| Culture | Parasites | Dosage, milliliters per 1 liter |
| Potato | Colorado beetle | 4 |
| Cucumbers in greenhouses | Thrips | 40 |
| Ticks | 4 | |
| Aphid | 8 | |
| Eggplants, tomatoes | Colorado potato beetle, ticks | 4 |
| Aphid | 8 | |
| Thrips | 10 | |
| Cabbage | Cabbage white butterfly, cutworm | 4 |
| Aphid | 8 | |
| Ornamental crops in greenhouses | Mites, ringed silkworm | 4 |
| Aphid | 8 | |
| Thrips | 10-12 |
Typically, the product should be applied 1-2 times, 1.5-2 weeks apart. This time is sufficient for the pests to hatch from their eggs. In this case, they can be destroyed with the second spray.
Precautionary measures
"Actofit" is a Class III hazard product, meaning it is moderately hazardous. It is important to avoid spilling the product into water bodies. When handling the product, wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking. After handling, wash your face and hands thoroughly with soap.
Compatibility
The main advantage of "Aktofit" is its excellent compatibility with many fertilizers and growth stimulants. It can be combined with fungicides and pyrethroids. The only limitation is its combination with alkaline products.
How and how long to store
Aktofit should be stored in a dry, dark place out of reach of children. The temperature should be between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. It is not recommended to store the working solution. Keep the solution away from food and medications. The shelf life is 2 years.
What to replace it with
The drug can be compared with products such as Confidor, Aktara, and Mitak. Effective analogs also include Fitoverm and Akarin.
"Aktofit" is an effective product that effectively combats harmful insects. To ensure the desired results, it is important to use it correctly, strictly following the instructions.