In recent months, many vegetable farmers have reported that the bio-pesticide avermectin is not effective against root-knot nematodes, with some even claiming it has no impact at all. However, this is not entirely accurate. Avermectin actually has a strong efficacy against root-knot nematodes and other ectoparasites. So why are so many farmers experiencing poor results? Let’s take a closer look at the possible reasons.
After speaking with several farmers and experts, it became clear that improper usage is a major factor. Many farmers find it inconvenient to apply avermectin through irrigation. They often dilute it heavily with water, which significantly reduces its effectiveness. The correct dilution ratio for avermectin is between 1500 to 2500 times. This means that for each side of water, only one kilogram of the product should be used. But how many farmers actually follow this guideline?
If the concentration isn't maintained, the pesticide won't work as intended. That's why some farmers feel that avermectin isn't working against root-knot nematodes. It's not that the product is ineffective—it's more about how it's being applied.
This issue isn’t unique to avermectin. Many other pesticides used in root protection are also diluted too much during irrigation. This not only leads to waste but also diminishes the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
When applying pesticides through irrigation, it's hard to control the exact concentration. Farmers often estimate the amount of pesticide to add, which can lead to under-dilution or over-dilution. If the concentration falls outside the optimal range, the desired effect becomes uncertain.
Additionally, using pesticides with water can be costly. For example, if you use 20 tons of water per mu (about 667 square meters) and the recommended concentration is 500 times, you'd need 40 kg of pesticide. At a higher dilution rate like 2000 times, you still need 10 kg. These costs add up quickly.
Another concern is the accumulation of pesticide residues in the soil. If farmers continue to apply pesticides through irrigation year after year, the levels of residual chemicals may exceed safe limits. This can disrupt the balance of soil microorganisms and cause long-term damage that is hard to predict or reverse.
The China Pesticide Network advises farmers to strictly follow the instructions when using pesticides. For instance, when using avermectin to control root-knot nematodes, it's best to apply it directly to the plant rather than through irrigation. This ensures proper concentration and minimizes waste. Proper application not only improves effectiveness but also helps protect the environment and maintain soil health.
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