How should Fitoferm be diluted for spider mite control? - briefly
Dilute Fitoferm to a concentration of «0.5–1 ml per litre of water», applying the solution until runoff and re‑treating every 7–10 days for effective spider‑mite control. Use a fine spray and ensure thorough coverage of foliage, especially the undersides where mites reside.
How should Fitoferm be diluted for spider mite control? - in detail
Fitoferm, a copper‑based protectant, must be mixed to a specific concentration to achieve effective control of spider mites while minimizing phytotoxic risk. The recommended dilution is 1 ml of product per 10 l of water, delivering approximately 200 ppm copper. This rate provides sufficient coverage for leaf surfaces where mites reside.
The preparation procedure includes the following steps:
- Measure the exact volume of Fitoferm using a calibrated syringe or graduated cylinder.
- Add the measured dose to a clean mixing tank containing the required amount of water.
- Stir the solution gently for 2–3 minutes to ensure uniform distribution of copper particles.
- Verify the final volume and adjust with water if necessary, maintaining the 1 ml : 10 l ratio.
Application guidelines:
- Apply during the early morning or late afternoon to reduce leaf burn caused by high temperatures and intense sunlight.
- Use a fine‑mist sprayer to achieve thorough leaf coverage, including the undersides where spider mites commonly hide.
- Ensure the spray pressure does not exceed 2 bar to prevent droplet breakup and uneven deposition.
- Do not exceed a total of three applications per growing season; allow a minimum interval of 7 days between treatments to avoid copper accumulation.
Environmental and safety considerations:
- Dilute only with clean, lukewarm water (20–25 °C); cold water can cause precipitation, while hot water may degrade the active ingredient.
- Maintain the pH of the spray solution between 6.0 and 7.5; extreme pH values reduce copper efficacy and increase plant stress.
- Wear protective gloves and eyewear during mixing and application; avoid inhalation of aerosols.
- Rinse equipment with water after each use to prevent residue buildup that could alter future dilutions.
Monitoring after treatment:
- Inspect foliage 24 hours post‑application for signs of phytotoxicity, such as discoloration or wilting.
- Conduct a follow‑up count of spider mite populations after 5–7 days; if numbers remain above economic thresholds, consider a second application within the prescribed interval.
Adhering to these precise dilution and application protocols maximizes spider mite control while preserving plant health and complying with regulatory limits on copper use.