MITC fumigants
Metham sodium is a dithiocarbamate soil fumigant with fungicide, nematocide, herbicide and insecticide activity. It is registered in several countries for the control of soil-borne pests in ornamentals, vegetables, food and fibre crops and tobacco. The fumigant is normally applied pre-planting soil-incorporated at a rate of 50-80 g a.i./ha
Dazomet Granular (tetrahydro-3, 5-dimethyl-2H-l, 3, 5- thyiadiazine-2-thione), it is applied to moist soils at rates between 40-80 g. a. i./ha, it breaks down in soil into methyl isothiocyanate, and has an acceptable effectiveness against soil-borne pests including nematodes, fungi and weeds. Dazomet is a solid material, and, therefore, stays inert until application.
Nowadays there are specialized machinery able to apply the fumigants and to incorporate them properly into the soil.
For the application of both fumigants in USA the workers require the following protective equipment, such as:
- A properly fitted half-facepiece respirator with organic vapour cartridge;
- Non-venting chemical goggles (or a full- face piece respirator with organic vapour cartridge);
- A body covering with long sleeves and long pants;
- Chemical resistant gloves and boots.
The effect of these fumigants on various soil-borne pests is much less than the effect known for methyl bromide. Metham sodium is not so effective against various weeds, including Cyperus rotundus. Its application should be complemented with another strategies for weed control.
