New nematode killer

10 September 1999

New nematode killer

A NEW weapon in the armoury against potato nematodes has been launched by Zeneca.

Said to be the first new nematicide for 20 years, Nemathorin (fosthiazate) was test marketed this season and offers much faster kill of both Globodera pallida and G rostochiensis than a standard alternative, oxamyl, according to technical manager Tanya Wright. Even at very low soil concentrations it stops them penetrating the crops roots, she adds.

The new granular product also deals with late hatching nematodes to limit season-end populations. "This is a vital part of a long-term control strategy, particularly with pallida."