FMC Velzo® Fungicide (Valifenalate 6% + Mancozeb 60% WG)
The Ultimate "Ponga" Stage Specialist for Grapes and Solanaceous Crops.
Indian horticulture is shifting towards high-value crops like grapes, tomatoes, and potatoes. However, these crops face a massive threat from Oomycetes (fungal-like pathogens) like Downy Mildew and Late Blight.
Velzo® by FMC is a "New Age Science" solution designed to secure the start of your crop cycle. By combining two powerful active ingredients, it offers a "Lock and Key" defense system that stops disease before it can destroy your harvest. [Image of downy mildew on grape leaves]
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Rapid "Ponga" Stage Protection: Specifically engineered to protect the vulnerable early shoot growth (Ponga) in grapes.
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Dual-Mode Defense: Combines Valifenalate (Systemic/Curative) and Mancozeb (Contact/Preventive) for complete coverage.
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Resistance Breaker: Excellent alternative to older chemistries (like Metalaxyl) where resistance has developed.
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Superior Rainfastness: Sticks to the leaf surface even during the monsoon, ensuring protection isn't washed away.
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Green & Healthy Crops: Contains Zinc (Zn) and Manganese (Mn), providing a "greening effect" that boosts photosynthesis.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Velzo® |
| Technical Name | Valifenalate 6.0% + Mancozeb 60.0% WG |
| IRAC MoA Code | 40 (Valifenalate) + M03 (Mancozeb) |
| Chemical Group | Carboxylic Acid Amide (CAA) + Dithiocarbamate |
| Formulation | WG (Wettable Granules) - Low Dust |
| Toxicity Label | 🔵 Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Velzo® operates using a unique synergistic mechanism that targets the fungal cell wall.
- The External Shield (Mancozeb): It stays on the leaf surface. When a fungal spore lands, Mancozeb disrupts its energy production (ATP) and kills it instantly on contact.
- The Internal Guard (Valifenalate): If a spore bypasses the shield, Valifenalate penetrates the leaf tissue (Translaminar action). It targets the cellulose synthase enzymes, stopping the fungus from building its cell walls.
- Double Protection: This combination ensures that the pathogen is attacked from both the outside and the inside, preventing resistance development.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Grapes | Downy Mildew (Plasmopara viticola) |
| Tomato | Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans), Early Blight |
| Potato | Late Blight (Prevents tuber rot) |
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 (ml or g / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (g / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grapes | See Label (Approx 500-600g) | 200 - 400 L | 2.0 - 2.5 g | Refer to Label |
| Tomato | Refer to Label | 200 L | Refer to Label | Refer to Label |
| Potato | Refer to Label | 200 L | Refer to Label | Refer to Label |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. Always read the enclosed leaflet for precise local acre dosages.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing (Grapes): Apply during the "Ponga" stage (3-5 leaf stage after pruning). This protects the new shoot before disease can establish.
- Mixing: Pre-mix the granules in a small amount of water to form a slurry before adding to the main tank. Maintain agitation.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the foliage, especially the undersides of leaves where Downy Mildew spores hide.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Warning: Pregnant women should avoid exposure to this product.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is "Velzo" the same as the medicine "Veloz"?
No! "Veloz" is a pharmaceutical tablet for acidity. Velzo® is a toxic agrochemical fungicide. Store separately and keep out of reach of children.
2. Can I use Velzo during the rainy season?
Yes. Velzo® has excellent rainfastness due to its WG formulation and sticks well to the leaf cuticle, making it ideal for the monsoon.
3. What is the best time to spray on Grapes?
The most critical time is the "Ponga" stage (early vegetative growth). Protecting the crop here prevents major epidemics later in the season.
4. Does it control powdery mildew?
No. Velzo® is specific to Oomycetes (Downy Mildew, Late Blight). You will need a different fungicide for Powdery Mildew.
5. Why is it sold as granules (WG)?
The Wettable Granule (WG) format creates less dust (safer for the farmer) and dissolves easily in water without clogging nozzles.
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.
