How to dilute Fitoverm for mites on eggplants? - briefly
For eggplant mite control, dilute Fitoverm at 0.5 ml per litre of water for light infestations and 1 ml per litre for severe ones. Apply the mixture evenly to all foliage until runoff.
How to dilute Fitoverm for mites on eggplants? - in detail
Fitoverm, a miticidal formulation based on abamectin, must be mixed with water at a precise concentration to achieve effective control of eggplant spider mites without causing phytotoxicity. Follow these steps:
- Determine the target dose. For eggplant foliage the recommended rate is 0.025 g of active ingredient per hectare, which translates to 0.5 ml of the commercial concentrate per 10 L of water.
- Use clean, lukewarm water (20‑25 °C). Fill a calibrated sprayer with the required volume, add the measured amount of Fitoverm, and agitate for at least 30 seconds to ensure uniform dispersion.
- Verify that the solution is clear and free of undissolved particles. If turbidity persists, increase mixing time or filter the mixture through a fine mesh.
- Apply the spray in the early morning or late afternoon when leaf temperature is below 30 °C and relative humidity exceeds 60 %. This timing promotes leaf absorption and reduces evaporation.
- Cover the entire canopy, ensuring both the upper and lower leaf surfaces receive a thin, even coating. Avoid runoff that can accumulate at the soil surface.
- Repeat applications at 7‑day intervals until mite populations drop below economic thresholds, typically after three treatments. Do not exceed four applications per growing season to prevent resistance buildup.
- After use, rinse the sprayer thoroughly with clean water, then with a mild detergent solution, and finally with a rinse of plain water. Store any remaining concentrate in a tightly sealed container, away from direct sunlight and temperatures above 30 °C.
Safety considerations:
- Wear gloves, goggles, and a protective mask during preparation and application.
- Keep the mixture away from edible fruit. If accidental contact occurs, wash the fruit with running water before consumption.
- Record the batch number, date of mixing, and dosage in a field log for traceability.
Troubleshooting:
- Leaf burn: reduce the concentration by 20 % and apply during cooler periods.
- Poor coverage: increase spray pressure or use a nozzle with a finer mist pattern.
- Persistent mite activity: verify that the solution was mixed at the correct strength and consider integrating a non‑chemical control method, such as releasing predatory mites, to enhance efficacy.