1. Mode of action

Metam sodium is a soil fumigant and a technical, economical and safe alternative to methyl bromide. It acts quickly prior to crop seeding by decomposing in the soil to a gas (MITC = methyl isothiocyanate) which has nematocidal, fungicidal, herbicidal and insecticidal activity. MITC is a gas which moves upwards through the soil, though good efficacy is obtained when the product is positioned in the depth of the soil, evenly distributed and allowed to remain there for a sufficiently long time. Metham sodium does not damage or leave residues in the planted crops and its use can reduce the need for other plant protection products such as herbicides, soil fungicides and nitrogen.

A broad spectrum of action against nematodes, fungi and weeds. Metam sodium is effective against nematodes such as cyst potato nematodes. It is equally beneficial for protecting vegetables and ornamental plants from soil fungi such as Rhizoctonia and Verticillium, and for controlling weeds resistant to herbicides. In addition to its protective role metam sodium also helps to improve crop quality and yield by enhancing plant vigour.

2. Target crops

Treatment with metam sodium is recommended on a very large number of crops, including:

• root crops such as potatoes, carrots and beet
• vegetable crops and strawberries
• ornamentals
• orchard and vineyard plantations.

Efficacy trials carried out continuously worldwide demonstrate the many benefits of soil disinfection with metam sodium, even in the case of successive rotational crops.

3. Application

The methode of application is a key element in achieving good disinfection. In this respect, optimal soil preparation and improved application techniques are essential.

• Injection techniques
• Product distribution within the soil
• Drip irrigation

4. Practical overview

This chemical may not be registered for use or application in your particular area. Great care should be taken to carefully review the registration status of this chemical prior to use. Always check the locally approved label for the application rates to ensure that you are using the correct dosage for your particular area. The chemical label may contain additional warnings and application information which should be strictly adhered to when using this chemical.

Application techniques

Injection techniques - Spade Injector

Metam sodium is injected into the soil at a depth of 10 cm and homogenized at a depth of ± 25 cm with the spades, while the surface of the soil is sealed or compacted with a roller. The technique is suitable for fungi and weed control.

Technique adapted to the strawberry in Spain

In just one pass this machine provides for :

• localized soil desinfection
• ridge formation
• coverage with plastic film

The technique offers:

• saving in time
• better efficacy due to a longer product residence time in the soil
• reduced dose due to the localized application.

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Product distribution within the soil

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Drip irrigation

The high water-solubility of metam sodium makes it practical for application via the irrigation system. Metam sodium is carried through the soil by the water front. This application technique is suitable for the control of weeds, fungi and nematodes.

Drip irrigation is particularly recommended for the following reasons :

• used indoors and outdoors
• can be used in stony fields
• possibility of using the existing irrigation system
• localized desinfection, so that the total amount of product used per hectare is reduced
• substantial water saving compared to other application techniques by irrigation
• environmentally friendly technique, where worker and environmental exposure can be expected to be lowest.

This technique is used especially in the Mediterranean areas: Morocco, Spain, South of France, Italy, Jordan.

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