Captaf Fungicide (Captan 50% WP) by Rallis India
The Ultimate Broad-Spectrum Contact Fungicide for Fruit Finish and Disease Protection.
Captaf is a trusted contact fungicide manufactured by Rallis India (a Tata Enterprise). Containing Captan 50% WP, it is the go-to solution for farmers looking to protect high-value crops like apples, grapes, potatoes, and chilies. Unlike many harsh chemicals, Captaf provides robust disease control without damaging the skin of the fruit, ensuring a high-quality "fruit finish" essential for market value.
It acts as a powerful shield, preventing fungal spores from germinating and entering the plant. Because of its multi-site action, it is also an excellent tool for managing resistance, making it a perfect partner for tank-mixing with systemic fungicides.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Immediate Protection: Acts on contact to kill fungal spores before they can infect the leaf or fruit.
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Prevents Resistance: Its multi-site mode of action prevents fungi from adapting, making it ideal for long-term use in spray programs.
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Superior Fruit Finish: Gentle on crops; unlike copper sprays, it does not cause russeting (rough skin), ensuring shiny, premium-quality produce (especially in Apples).
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Versatile Disease Control: effectively manages Scab, Downy Mildew, Blights, Anthracnose, and Damping-off across various crops.
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Seed to Harvest Usage: Can be used for seed treatment, nursery soil drenching, and foliar sprays on mature plants.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Captaf |
| Technical Name | Captan 50% WP |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group M4 (Multi-site Contact) |
| Chemical Group | Phthalimide |
| Formulation | Wettable Powder (WP) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Captaf is a multi-site contact fungicide. It acts like a chemical barrier on the plant surface.
- Inhibits Respiration: It disrupts the fungus's energy production (ATP synthesis) within the mitochondria, effectively starving the pathogen.
- Blocks Spore Germination: When a fungal spore lands on a treated leaf, Captaf prevents it from growing a "germ tube," stopping infection before it starts.
- Resistance Management: Because it attacks the fungus at multiple biological points, it is extremely difficult for pests to develop resistance against it.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Apple | Scab, Flyspeck, Black Rot |
| Grape | Downy Mildew |
| Potato & Tomato | Late Blight, Early Blight |
| Chilli | Fruit Rot (Anthracnose), Damping-off |
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 (g / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (g / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | 1000 g | 300 - 400 L | 2.5 - 3.0 g | Refer Label |
| Grape | 1000 g | 300 - 400 L | 2.5 g | Refer Label |
| Potato / Tomato | 1000 g | 300 - 400 L | 2.5 - 3.0 g | Refer Label |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. Always check the packet label for specific PHI values per crop.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply purely as a preventative measure (before disease appears) or at the very first sign of disease. For apples, start from the "Green Tip" stage.
- Mixing (Slurry Method): Do not dump powder directly into the tank. Mix the required quantity with a little water in a bucket to form a smooth paste (slurry), then add this to the spray tank.
- Incompatibility: ⚠️ NEVER mix Captaf with alkaline substances like Bordeaux Mixture, Lime Sulfur, or oil-based formulations. This will destroy the medicine and may burn the plant.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the foliage and fruit. Use medium-fine droplets for better sticking.
- Safety: Captaf is a severe eye irritant. Always wear protective goggles and a mask during mixing and spraying. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Captaf a systemic fungicide?
No, Captaf is a contact (non-systemic) fungicide. It stays on the surface of the plant to prevent fungus from entering. It must be applied before the disease spreads inside the plant.
2. Can I mix Captaf with other pesticides?
Yes, it is compatible with most common insecticides (like Imidacloprid) and fungicides (like Hexaconazole). However, do NOT mix it with oil-based products or alkaline mixtures like Bordeaux.
3. Does Captaf cure disease after it has appeared?
It is primarily a "Protectant." If disease is already established, it will stop it from spreading further (anti-sporulant) but will not cure deep internal infections. For existing infections, mix with a systemic fungicide.
4. Why is Captaf preferred for Apples?
Captaf is famous for its "cosmetic finish." While copper-based fungicides can leave rough brown spots (russeting) on apple skin, Captaf keeps the skin smooth and shiny, ensuring better market prices.
5. Can I use this for seed treatment?
Yes, Captaf is excellent for seed treatment and nursery soil drenching to prevent Damping-off and root rots in vegetables like Tomato and Chilli.
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), specifically eye protection, during application.
