How should Fitoverm be diluted for spider mites? - briefly
Mix 1 ml of Fitoverm concentrate with 1 liter of water (≈0.1 % v/v) and spray until the foliage is thoroughly wet.
How should Fitoverm be diluted for spider mites? - in detail
Fitoverm is a water‑soluble formulation containing spirodiclofen, a systemic acaricide effective against spider mites. The label recommends a specific concentration to achieve optimal control while minimizing phytotoxic risk.
Recommended dilution
- Mix 2 mL of product with 1 L of clean water.
- This yields a concentration of approximately 2 ppm of the active ingredient.
- For severe infestations, increase to 3 mL per 1 L, but do not exceed 5 mL L⁻¹, as higher rates may damage foliage.
Application procedure
- Fill a calibrated sprayer with the measured water volume.
- Add the calculated amount of Fitoverm concentrate.
- Agitate the mixture for 30 seconds to ensure uniform distribution.
- Apply evenly to the undersides of leaves, where spider mites reside, until runoff begins.
- Repeat applications at 7‑day intervals if mite populations persist, observing a maximum of three applications per growing season.
Environmental and safety considerations
- Use only during calm weather; wind speeds above 10 km h⁻¹ increase drift risk.
- Avoid application when temperatures exceed 30 °C or drop below 10 °C, as extreme conditions reduce efficacy and increase plant stress.
- Do not apply to flowering heads of crops intended for direct consumption.
- Wear protective gloves and eye protection during mixing and spraying.
Compatibility with other products
- Compatible with most oil‑based horticultural sprays when applied at least 24 hours apart.
- Incompatible with copper‑based fungicides; a wash‑out period of 48 hours is required.
- Do not mix with high‑pH detergents, as they may degrade the active ingredient.
Following these guidelines ensures the correct concentration of Fitoverm for effective spider mite management while preserving plant health and complying with label restrictions.