“Metaldehyde” refers to a drug that helps cope with harmful slugs and snails. The product contains an active component with the same name. The substance can be used on personal plots. It can be used to process berry crops, citrus fruits, vegetable and fruit plants. The composition is also suitable for controlling slugs on tobacco and grapes.
Active substance and formulation
The active component of the drug is metaldehyde.The composition contains 5% of this ingredient. The substance also contains kaolin, wheat bran and other components.
The product is produced in the form of granules, which have a cylindrical shape. Each fragment has a diameter of 3 millimeters. It can be 5-12 millimeters in height. The granules may have a blue, green or pink tint. They do not get wet very quickly in water and are resistant to precipitation. The effect of the product can last 3 weeks.
What is it used against?
This insecticide is actively used against slugs and snails. The drug is used to combat parasites on cultivated plants. It also helps to destroy pests in basements, cellars, and garden plots.
The substance is easy to use. It is sold in granules, which are characterized by resistance to precipitation and do not get wet in water upon first use. This helps maintain effectiveness for 3 weeks.
The active component is not addictive to parasites. They die literally within the first day after use. Another advantage of the product is considered to be quite economical consumption.
How the drug works
"Metaldehyde" is a contact and enteric pesticide that is intended to kill shellfish. When the substance enters the stomach of parasites, it causes damage to the mucous membranes of the digestive system. This leads to their rapid death.
Slugs and snails get severe burns from normal contact with the chemical. In addition, they develop complete dehydration.Thanks to the double effect, it is possible to achieve 100% death of mollusks within several hours.
The use of this drug has a number of advantages:
- The composition helps to obtain a long-lasting effect. At the same time, the product provides protection of the area or premises from parasites for up to 3 weeks.
- The product does not harm crops. When the active component breaks down, nitrogen and sulfur are produced. They fertilize the soil and activate the development of cultivated plants.
- The drug helps protect plants from fungi. Slugs are considered the main carriers of such diseases.
- The substance does not harm earthworms and beneficial microorganisms that are present in the soil. It is also considered low toxic to bees.
- The product is available in the form of granular bait. It is already ready for use and does not require additional manipulations.
- Precipitation does not reduce the effectiveness of the product.
Instructions for use of the product "Metaldehyde"
The finished bait can be placed between rows, on paths, in areas of maximum accumulation and reproduction of parasites. On average, the consumption rate is 20 grams of the substance per 1 square meter of beds. When using the drug in summer cottages, it is recommended to scatter it at least 20 centimeters from cultivated plants. When processing cabbage beds, it is important to avoid penetration of the substance into the heads of cabbage so that it does not subsequently end up in the food product.
Since the maximum activity of these pests is observed in the evening or at night, they need to be combated in the evening. This can also be done early in the morning.
It is permissible to carry out manual work on the site no earlier than 10 days after using the substance.You can start harvesting only after 1 month.
To prevent the product from leading to negative consequences for the human body, you should definitely use gloves. It is also permissible to use devices that help make contactless layout of the composition. Spoons or scoops are suitable for this.
Precautionary measures
Processing of a summer cottage should be carried out using personal protective equipment. Drinking, smoking or eating food is strictly prohibited during work. After completing the procedure, you need to wash your hands and face with soap. Washing the oral cavity is of no small importance.
Harm to humans
If the instructions are strictly followed, the product does not pose a danger to people. It is used in organic farming. The composition does not have a toxic effect on animals. It has an unpleasant taste and aroma for pets. Also, the substance does not harm bees.
Storage Features
The drug must be kept in a cool, dry place. It should be kept away from food and medications. It is also important to ensure that the substance is out of reach of animals and children.
Analogs
Effective analogues of the drug that contain the same active ingredient include the following:
- "Meta";
- "Storm";
- "Anti-slug";
- "Compo"
- "Celaflor Limex".
In addition to metaldehyde, such products contain compressed bran and components that act as bait. To repel birds, the product gives the granules a blue tint. To prevent pets from eating the drug, it is made bitter.
"Metaldehyde" is considered an effective remedy that successfully copes with slugs and snails in garden areas.In order for the use of a substance to give the desired results, it is important to strictly follow the instructions for its use.
