MeloCon LC contains active spores of a naturally occurring, soil-dwelling fungus that parasitizes all life stages of nematodes,” explains Chris Judd, Global Vice-President of Marketing at Certis Biologicals.
On January 31, 2022, Certis Biologicals announced the release of its newest bionematicide, MeloCon® LC. The product is labeled for use in all of the lower 48 states, with the exception of California although registration is pending. Certis Biologicals is also evaluating opportunities for use in Canada. MeloCon® LC is OMRI-listed and NOP-compliant, thus qualifying for organic systems and making it a powerful tool in integrated nematode management programs.
MeloCon LC to target all nematode life stages
According to Chris, MeloCon® LC’s efficacy against all life stages of nematodes, from egg to adult, is one of the product’s many shining traits. Whereas many nematicides are made of fermentation extracts and are less effective on the egg stages, the use of active fungal spores of Purpureocillium lilacinum strain 251 makes MeloCon® LC effective against a variety of plant parasitic nematodesacross many crops. . This new bionematicide formulation is MRL exempt and has no restriction on the number of applications and can thus be applied throughout the season for effective nematode control.
“MeloCon® LC can be used up to 14 days ahead of planting as well as at planting and during the growing seasonallowing for late-season control of nematodes when the warmer soil and availability of roots typically results in peaking nematode populations,” explains Chris.
Demand for nematicides on the rise
As Chris explains, nematodes are the most abundant living organism on the planet and while not all species are harmful to plants, plant-parasitic nematodes have always been an issue. However, nematodes’ microscopic nature makes them difficult to detect. Rather, growers are typically left to treat the secondary and aboveground effects of nematode damage such as reduced yield and increased susceptibility to disease. However, technological advances have increased awareness of nematode problems and has driven the demand for nematode solutions in soil-based agriculture.
MeloCon® LC’s unique liquid formulation also boasts improved storage conditions relative to competing products, with the solution remaining stable for two years at room temperature when unopened. This improved stability provides growers with flexibility in handling and storing the nematicide.
“All crops are affected by nematodes, which infect the roots and weaken the plants. With MeloCon® LC, growers have a simple liquid application and a stable product that targets the whole nematode life cycle,” says Chris.
According to the company’s initial press release, MeloCon® LC is especially effective on potato, sweet potato, melon and squash, carrot, asparagus, soft fruit, cruciferous and orchard crops.
Certis Biologicals