E-learning Module for Fazor

UK - July 13, 2011

Dow AgroSciences are reminding growers and advisors to use the e-learning module for the potato sprout suppression product, Fazor in order to get the best results from it this season.  The e-learning module can be found on-line at http://www.fazor.co.uk.

“This unique e-learning system contains essential information on integrated methods for the control of volunteer potatoes and sprout suppression in store, as well as a wealth of product information to optimize its use.  Those completing the Fazor module will be entitled to a CPD BASIS point,” says John Sellars, Marketing Specialist for Dow AgroSciences.

“Fazor is the only in-potato field application solution for the control of volunteer potatoes, which can be important source of blight, viruses and potato cyst nematodes.  Applied correctly, trials show that Fazor significantly reduces potato volunteers in following crops.  It also suppresses sprouting in store.  In order to optimize the performance of Fazor, there are a number of application, timing and weather criteria that need to be met and the updated e-learning module ensures that advisors and users of Fazor are fully briefed and understand how to get the best results,” says John.

The optimum timing for Fazor is five weeks before harvest, once all tubers required for harvesting have reached at least 25mm long.  Each field needs to be checked for tuber size and maturity using test digs.  Growers should calculate back at least three and not more than five weeks from their intended burn down date.  This allows sufficient time for the chemical to be taken up by the leaves and translocated to the tubers where it acts.

The crop should also be actively growing and the haulm mostly green, but with a few of the lower leaves turning yellow and most of the flowers having fallen.  The crop should not be stressed by drought, pests or diseases.  Fazor should not be applied in high temperatures in excess of 26°C.

Fazor contains 600g/kg maleic hydrazide, formulated as a water-soluble granule and packed in a 2.5 kg bag.  It is recommended on second earlies and maincrop potatoes (not on seed or first earlies) at a dose rate of 5 kg/ha in 350-500 litres of water.  It should be applied to actively growing foliage, typically around 3 to 5 weeks before burn down.  It has a maximum number of treatments of one per crop and a latest time of application of 3 weeks before harvest.  Fazor is fully approved for use on bulb onions and has specific off-label approvals for use in garlic, shallots, carrots and parsnips.