Himil Fungicide (Metalaxyl 8% + Mancozeb 64% WP)
The "Double-Engine" Protection Against Late Blight & Downy Mildew
Himil by Insecticides (India) Limited is a powerful, dual-action fungicide designed to protect your high-value crops. By combining Metalaxyl (Systemic) and Mancozeb (Contact), it offers a complete solution: it cures existing infections from the inside and forms a protective shield on the outside. It is the trusted choice for farmers fighting tough fungal diseases like Late Blight in potatoes and Downy Mildew in grapes.
Best For: Potato, Tomato, Grapes, Mustard, and Black Pepper.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Curative "Kick-Back" Action: Stops fungal infections that have already started within 24 to 48 hours of application, saving crops before damage becomes visible.
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Double-Engine Protection: Mancozeb kills spores on the leaf surface, while Metalaxyl enters the plant to hunt down hidden fungus inside the tissue.
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Protects New Growth: Because it is systemic, Himil moves upwards in the plant sap, protecting new leaves and stems that grow after you have sprayed.
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Excellent Rainfastness: Rapidly absorbed by plant leaves, ensuring that the medicine isn't washed away easily by rain shortly after spraying.
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Phytotonic Effect: Keeps plants green and vigorous, helping them withstand stress and recover faster from disease attacks.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Himil |
| Technical Name | Metalaxyl 8% + Mancozeb 64% WP |
| Mode of Action | Systemic (Metalaxyl) + Contact (Mancozeb) |
| Chemical Group | Phenylamide + Dithiocarbamate |
| Formulation | Wettable Powder (WP) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue/Yellow (Caution/Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Himil attacks fungi in two distinct ways to prevent resistance and ensure total control.
- Systemic Attack (Metalaxyl): It is absorbed by the leaves and roots and moves upwards through the plant's vascular system. It inhibits protein synthesis in the fungus, causing it to starve and die from the inside.
- Contact Shield (Mancozeb): It remains on the leaf surface, forming a toxic barrier. When fungal spores land on the leaf, Mancozeb disrupts their respiration and prevents them from germinating.
- Synergy: By combining these two, Himil reduces the risk of the fungus becoming resistant to the medicine, ensuring it works season after season.
Note: Metalaxyl specifically targets Oomycetes (Water molds like Late Blight and Downy Mildew), while Mancozeb provides broad-spectrum cover.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Potato | Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) |
| Tomato | Late Blight, Early Blight |
| Grapes | Downy Mildew |
| Mustard | White Rust, Alternaria Blight |
| Black Pepper | Phytophthora Foot Rot (Quick Wilt) |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (gm / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (gm / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potato | 1000 g | 400 L | 2.5 g | 60 |
| Tomato | 800 - 1000 g | 200 - 300 L | 2.5 g | 49 |
| Grapes | 800 - 1000 g | 200 - 400 L | 4.0 - 5.0 g | 49+ (Check Export Rules) |
| Mustard | 1000 g | 400 L | 2.5 g | 56 - 60 |
| Black Pepper | 2.5g per Vine | 2-5L per Vine | 1.25 g | 147 |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting to ensure food safety.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply preventively (before disease appears) or at the very first sign of disease. For potatoes, spray when the plants meet across the rows.
- Mixing: Premix the Himil powder in a small bucket of water to make a smooth slurry before adding it to the main spray tank. Do NOT mix with alkaline products like Bordeaux Mixture.
- Coverage: Ensure complete coverage of the foliage. Use appropriate nozzles to reach the undersides of leaves where fungi often hide.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use and do not breathe in the spray mist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Himil cure Late Blight if it has already started?
Yes, Himil has "kick-back" activity. It can stop infections that have occurred within the last 24-48 hours. However, for advanced heavy damage, it is better used to protect the remaining healthy plants.
2. Is Himil rainfast?
Yes, the Metalaxyl component is absorbed rapidly by the plant. However, for best results, avoid spraying if rain is expected within 2-3 hours.
3. Can I use Himil for seed treatment?
No. This formulation (72% WP) is for foliar spraying. For seed treatment, use Himil Gold (Metalaxyl 35% WS) which is specifically designed for seeds.
4. Can I mix Himil with insecticides?
Yes, Himil is generally compatible with common insecticides like Imidacloprid and Cypermethrin. Always perform a small jar test before mixing large quantities.
5. Why is the PHI so long for potatoes (60 days)?
The systemic nature of Metalaxyl means it stays in the plant system for a long time to provide extended protection. You must stop spraying 60 days before harvest to ensure the tubers are safe to eat.
Safety & Disclaimer
Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label. The information provided here is for guidance only. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) during application. Do not spray near water bodies as it is toxic to aquatic life.
