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Sitara Plus, developed by Indofil Industries Ltd., is an efficient systemic fungicide that effectively controls and prevents a wide range of fungal diseases in various crops, including vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals. It contains Hexaconazole 5 % SC as its active ingredient, a triazole fungicide that disrupts the biosynthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes.

Mode of Action

Hexaconazole's antifungal activity stems from its interference with ergosterol synthesis, a critical component of fungal cell membranes:

1. Ergosterol Inhibition: Hexaconazole blocks the enzyme lanosterol 14 alpha-demethylase, a key enzyme involved in ergosterol biosynthesis. This disruption leads to the accumulation of lanosterol, an abnormal sterol that disrupts the structure and function of fungal cell membranes.

2. Membrane Disruption: The altered membrane structure caused by lanosterol accumulation leads to increased permeability and leakage of cellular contents. This disruption of the cell's protective barrier ultimately leads to cell death.

Key Features and Benefits

Sitara Plus offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among farmers:

1. Broad-spectrum Efficacy: Sitara Plus effectively controls a diverse range of fungal diseases, including early and late blight, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and downy mildew.

2. Systemic Action: Hexaconazole penetrates plant tissues and spreads throughout the plant, providing long-lasting protection against fungal infections.

3. Curative and Preventive Action: Sitara Plus not only prevents fungal infections but also eradicates existing ones, providing comprehensive disease control.

4. Safe for a Variety of Crops: It can be used on a wide range of vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals without causing phytotoxicity.

5. Enhanced Sprayability: The SC (suspension concentrate) formulation ensures uniform dispersion and better adherence to plant surfaces, improving spray coverage and efficacy.

Application Guidelines

Sitara Plus is typically applied as a foliar spray, ensuring thorough coverage of all plant parts. The recommended dosage varies depending on the crop and the severity of the fungal infection. Generally, a concentration of 50-100 ml/hectare is recommended for scab and powdery mildew, while for early and late blight, a concentration of 250-500 ml/hectare is suggested. Repeat applications may be necessary at intervals of 7-14 days, depending on disease pressure and weather conditions.

Safety Considerations

Sitara Plus is classified as moderately toxic, so it is essential to follow safety precautions during handling and application:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear gloves, a mask, and overalls to minimize exposure to the product.

2. Avoid Direct Contact: Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes to prevent irritation.

3. Weather Conditions: Do not apply during hot or windy conditions to ensure proper dispersion and prevent drift.

4. Waste Disposal: Dispose of empty containers and unused products responsibly to protect the environment.

Overall, Sitara Plus is a versatile and effective systemic fungicide that provides broad-spectrum protection against a wide range of fungal diseases in various crops. Its combination of systemic action, curative and preventive properties, safe profile, and enhanced sprayability makes it a valuable tool for farmers seeking to maintain healthy and productive crops.

Additional Information

• Product type: Systemic fungicide

• Active ingredient: Hexaconazole 5 % SC

• Application method: Foliar spray

• Target crops: Vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals, including scab, powdery mildew, early, and late blight

• Benefits: Broad-spectrum efficacy, systemic action, curative and preventive action, safe for a variety of crops, enhanced sprayability

Please note that this information is for general guidance only. Always consult the product label for specific application instructions and safety precautions.

Here are some additional tips for using Sitara Plus effectively:

1. Apply the spray evenly to all parts of the plant, ensuring thorough coverage.

2. Do not apply the spray during hot weather or when the plants are stressed to prevent damage.

3. Avoid applying the spray to wet plants to ensure proper adhesion and efficacy.

4. Monitor the plants for signs of nutrient deficiency or excess to maintain plant health.