18 May 2025, New Delhi: The management of fungal diseases in horticultural crops such as tomato is vital to ensure both yield and quality. Among the common diseases affecting tomato, Alternaria blight poses a significant challenge to farmers, particularly in regions with humid and warm climatic conditions. This disease, caused by the Alternaria species, leads to leaf spots, premature defoliation, reduced fruit size, and can significantly impact marketable yield.
Government Approval
To effectively manage this disease, Metiram 70% WG, a fungicide, has been approved for use by the Central Insecticide Bureau (CIB) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. This approval is a crucial indicator that the product has undergone rigorous evaluation for efficacy, safety, and environmental impact under Indian agro-climatic conditions.
Metiram belongs to the dithiocarbamate group of fungicides and is known for its protective action. It acts by interfering with the respiration process of fungal cells, thereby preventing the spread and development of the disease on the plant surface. In the formulation Metiram 70% WG, the term “WG” denotes a Water Dispersible Granule, which enhances ease of handling, mixing, and spraying.
Dosage
For application on tomato crops, the active ingredient (a.i.) required per hectare is 1750 grams. The total formulation recommended per hectare is 2500 grams, ensuring an effective concentration of the fungicide for disease control. This dosage is meant to provide a thorough protective layer on the tomato foliage, preventing the germination of fungal spores and stopping the infection at its early stages.
The fungicide must be diluted in 500 to 750 liters of water per hectare, depending on the crop canopy and application method. This dilution ensures uniform coverage and adequate adherence to the plant surface. Spraying should ideally be done during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation losses and ensure better absorption.
Waiting Period
An important agronomic aspect of using fungicides is observing the pre-harvest interval, commonly referred to as the waiting period. For Metiram 70% WG, a waiting period of six days is mandated from the last application to harvest. This ensures that the residue levels on harvested tomatoes remain well within the safe limits defined by national and international food safety standards.
In conclusion, the adoption of Metiram 70% WG for the control of Alternaria blight in tomato is a science-backed, officially approved strategy under India’s pesticide regulation framework. Farmers using this product as per the recommended dose and schedule can expect effective disease suppression, improved plant health, and enhanced yields. However, for best results, the application should be part of an integrated pest management (IPM) program that includes timely monitoring, cultural practices, and resistance management strategies.
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