Fungicide

A: Fungicides are applied either to seeds or directly on crops. Many of the seed-treated fungicides possess systemic action, that is, they can be taken up into plant tissues where they provide protection against pests and pathogens similar to their insecticidal counterparts.

A: Start applications prior to or when symptoms first develop, and are at a low severity. Fungicides have little to no curative activity, and curative use can promote development of fungicide resistance. Select fungicides that are labeled for the targeted disease and demonstrated to be effective.

A: The fungicide may move through the leaf tissue to the margins of the leaf, but it will not translocate through the whole plant or to new leaves that emerge from the canopy. Also, a fungicide is usually only effective for 14-21 days, although some of the newer products may last longer.

A: Penetrant fungicides move into the plant and kill or immobilize the fungus during or after infection. Penetrants may move very little or a fair amount once inside the plant. The amount of movement depends upon the particular fungicide, method of application, and the use of adjuvants, such as a spreader sticker.

A: Each plant disease has its own "personality" and thus prefers different weather. However, most plant diseases require leaf wetness. Therefore, during periods of rain and heavy dews, more frequent fungicide applications are a good idea. The normal range of spray applications is every 7 to 14 days.

A: Contact fungicides do not penetrate the blades. Therefore, they must remain on the surface of the leaf blade for about 3-8 days to be effective.

A: In general, higher carrier volumes are recommended to improve fungicide coverage as plants grow and plant density increases. Carrier volumes of 15 to 20 gallons per acre (57 to 76 liters) are recommended for ground applications, with reduced coverage observed at volumes under 15 gallons per acre (57 liters).

A: Be sure to check the forecast, as rain can also wash away the product. Systemic fungicides, however, are absorbed by the roots. To be effective, this type must be watered in after application.

A: Yes. Lawn Fungus Control can be applied at the same time that you apply any turf products, including grass seed mixtures.

A: A note that not every fungicide is effective against root rot (or against all fungi that cause root rot), or works in the same way, so if you can't get Buxus Blight, check the label before you buy and apply. Make up your fungicide as per the label and dunk the roots in the solution before you repot.