Certis Introduces Stepwise Change For Bionematicide
Certis Biologicals has launched MeloCon LC, which builds on the success of its MeloCon lineup by featuring the same active ingredient, Purpureocillium lilacinum strain 251. However, the new MeloCon LC formulation offers:
- Lower use rate
- Easier storage with improved shelf life
- Application flexibility
Karla Medina, field development manager for Certis Biologicals, explains that the new liquid formulation allows for a transition from applying multiple pounds per acre to only needing to apply 10.25 fl. oz. per acre.
Medina explains growers can expect the performance that has been demonstrated by MeloCon products for the past 10 years, but the new MeloCon LC liquid formulation brings greater flexibility in its storage and use.
“This product has a fungal parasite for plant-parasitic nematodes,” Medina says. “It’s a unique mode of action compared to other bionematicides. It’s very specific. It doesn’t affect any beneficial nematodes—just plant-parasitic ones.”
MeloCon LC does not require cold storage. Instead, it is shelf-stable at room temperatures for up to two years.
“The improved storage conditions set it apart, and with its liquid formulation, it’s a more concentrated product,” Medina says.
This highly effective bionematicide has shown efficacy in fungi spores attaching to nematodes at all life stages. MeloCon LC can be applied preplant, at plant or post-planting.
“You can do a drench, in-furrow, chemigation through a drip or a transplant water drench, and it offers flexibility in application methods through the season,” she says.
As part of an integrated nematode management plan, Medina says growers will see improved root health as the product has an added benefit in providing control against nematode root damage. She highlights both at planting and the post-planting application opportunity as a key timing to control nematodes from feeding on young plants’ growing roots.
MeloCon LC is labeled for use in citrus, root crops, fruits and vegetables in all states except California, where registration is pending.
With its recent launch, Medina says the new formulation has been welcomed. In field trials, she’s eager to see its performance in long-season crops, such as sweet potatoes, where it could fit nicely as another tool for conventional growers.
“The demand for biologicals is always on the positive side every year with growth,” Medina says. “The bionematicide category is the fastest-growing sector.”
The product is OMRI-certified and NOP-compliant. Certis Biologicals will be phasing out the previous wettable granule formulations.
