"Topaz" (the main active ingredient is penconazole) is a highly effective pesticide, which belongs to the class of so-called systemic fungicides (another similar trade mark is "Almaz"). This class of fungicidal agents is characterized by the fact that the active substance is absorbed into the plant through the epidermis of the stems and leaves, and then is carried along with the sap throughout the plant. Penconazole inhibits the growth of fungal spores and is cured.
It can be used for preventive purposes, as well as for the treatment of the vineyard from various fungal diseases, including powdery mildew. The drug has no phytotoxic properties, therefore it does not affect plant growth and vegetation. Therefore, "Topaz" is most suitable for viticulture purposes. Like all systemic fungicides, it does not create a film on the surface of the plant.
Topaz is available in two forms:
- powder of white, sometimes bluish color, which must be diluted in a separate vessel in a small amount of water, and then dissolved in the main container in 10 liters of water;
- liquid form - ten percent suspension (in ampoules or in a bottle), which can be diluted immediately in the main container.
The drug is poorly soluble in water and readily soluble in many organic solvents.
Grape processing
"Topaz" - instructions for use for grapes
The first step is to read the description and instructions for the use of the fungicide "Topaz" for grapes. Since the substance is intended for various types of plants (including indoor plants), it should also be used in different ways.
If signs of a fungal disease have already appeared in the vineyard, treatment should be started immediately - if the problem is neglected, the fungicide may be powerless. The active substance is delivered to the affected plant by spraying. Spraying is done on a dry and calm day. This moment is important for increasing the effectiveness of the use of "Topaz".
The ambient temperature can be any above zero (the drug works even up to -10 degrees, but there will be problems with freezing of the liquid).
- If the gardener has a fungicide in powder form, then you need to dissolve 2 ml in a little water to get a concentrate. And only then dilute this mixture in 10 liters of liquid.
- If the drug is in the form of an emulsion, it can be dissolved in the main container right away (the same 2 ml per 10 liters of water), but it is more convenient to do the same as in the previous option: first make a concentrated solution, then dilute it in the main container.
Preparing a solution for spraying the vineyard
In case of grape disease with powdery mildew or oidium, the estimated consumption of the drug is one and a half liters per 10 square meters of planting area. Next, you need to process the infected plants.
If it rains within the next three hours, the procedure will have to be repeated. If precipitation starts later, it doesn't matter. During this time, the fungicide is completely absorbed into the stem and leaves of the vine, and begins to act to suppress the fungus. In this case, it is not necessary to do repeated processing in order to avoid an overdose of "Topaz". If a part of the drug gets into the soil, it is also okay, because Topaz decomposes quickly in the soil. After that, you should wait at least two weeks, evaluate the result, and if the problem is not completely eliminated, do another treatment.
For preventive purposes, the grapes are sprayed four times per season. The dosage and flow rate of the liquid are the same as when used as a therapeutic agent.
If the drug is not completely used immediately, it should be disposed of - the finished drug cannot be stored. For the rational use of the substance, the exact amount can be prepared; it is convenient to use a medical syringe for dosage.
We must not forget about security measures. The drug belongs to chemicals of the third class of toxicity (moderate hazard to humans and animals), therefore, reasonable precautions must be taken:
We use protective equipment during processing.
- do not prepare the solution in a container intended for food;
- do not allow Topaz to come into contact with the skin, mucous membranes or eyes (if it does happen, immediately rinse the area with plenty of water);
- it is dangerous to use Topaz without a respirator;
- to prevent children or pets from accessing the stored or ready-to-use substance;
- after use, the container from the fungicide (ampoules, bags, bottles) must be disposed of so that no one can use them later;
- wash hands and face after work;
- do not allow the preparation to enter water bodies: "Topaz" is toxic to many fish species.
Useful information
The effectiveness of the preparation "Topaz" for grapes is high; combination with other substances is not necessary. If, however, the effectiveness of the substance is not enough, it can be combined with other fungicides. A pair of "Horus" and "Kuproksat" are well suited. You can combine the substance with pesticides or other drugs if the vine has other problems besides fungi. In this case, one processing can solve several issues. Moreover, it is important to know that Topaz enhances and prolongs the effect of other substances.
Topaz has a wide range of effects.
Based on the experience of using Topaz, its indisputable advantages stand out:
- a wide range of actions;
- high efficiency;
- lack of phytotoxicity;
- the possibility of using for different types of garden plants;
- moisture resistance, resistance to low temperatures;
- approved for use both in personal plots and in residential premises;
- relatively low cost, which may be important for many winegrowers.
The disadvantages include the already mentioned toxicity and, in some cases, the need to re-process the vine.
Thus, the advantages of Topaz significantly prevail over its disadvantages. Based on the experience of use, this fungicide can be recommended for use as a protective agent. For the substance "Topaz" fungicide, the instruction for grapes is obligatory to read!
