Flock Fungicide (Tricyclazole 75% WP)
The "Gold Standard" specialized systemic fungicide for total Rice Blast control.
Nichino Flock is a premium solution designed specifically to fight the most destructive enemy of paddy fields: Rice Blast. Whether it is leaf blast or the devastating "rotten neck," Flock stops the fungus before it can damage your yield.
Best For: Paddy farmers looking for a curative and preventive solution that makes grains shiny, heavy, and disease-free.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
-
⏱️
Rapid Absorption: Absorbed by the plant within 1 to 2 hours, ensuring immediate protection.
-
🛡️
Systemic Action: Moves upwards (acropetally) inside the plant to protect new leaves and panicles that grow after spraying.
-
⏳
Long-Lasting Guard: Provides a strong defense shield for 14+ days, reducing the need for frequent sprays.
-
🌧️
Rainfast Power: Perfect for the monsoon season; it does not wash off easily if it rains 2 hours after application.
-
🌿
"Green Effect": Enhances crop vigor, making leaves greener and improving grain filling (milling recovery).
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Flock |
| Technical Name | Tricyclazole 75% WP |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 16.1 (Melanin Biosynthesis Inhibitor) |
| Chemical Group | Triazolobenzothiazole ($C_9H_7N_3S$) |
| Formulation | Wettable Powder (WP) |
| Toxicity Label | Yellow Triangle (Highly Toxic) ⚠️ |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Flock acts as an "Anti-Penetrant." It targets the fungus specifically to stop it from entering the plant.
- Blocks the Armor: It inhibits the production of Melanin in the fungal spores.
- Stops the Pressure: Without melanin, the fungus cannot build the high pressure (turgor) needed to punch through the tough rice leaf.
- Starves the Fungus: Unable to penetrate the leaf surface, the fungus dries out and dies.
Because it stops penetration, Flock is most effective when applied preventively (before severe disease spreads).
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Paddy (Rice) | Leaf Blast (spots on leaves) |
| Paddy (Rice) | Neck Blast (Rotten Neck) - Critical! |
| Paddy (Rice) | Node Blast & Panicle Blast |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results. Do not cut corners on water volume.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (g / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (g / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddy (Preventive) | 120 g | 200 L | 0.6 g | Refer to Label (Approx 30) |
| Paddy (Curative/High Risk) | 160 g | 200 L | 0.8 g | Refer to Label |
| Nursery (Root Soak) | -- | -- | 12g / 15L Water | -- |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: For Neck Blast, apply at Late Booting (just before the panicle comes out). Repeat at 50% flowering if weather is cloudy/humid.
- Mixing: Premix the powder in a small bucket before adding to the main tank. Ensure constant agitation.
- Coverage: Use Hollow Cone Nozzles to create a fine mist that penetrates the dense canopy.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Avoid inhaling the dust during mixing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Flock for export Rice (Basmati)?
Important: Do NOT use Flock if exporting to the European Union (EU), as it may exceed residue limits (MRLs). It is permitted for US markets and domestic consumption.
2. Does it cure neck blast after it appears?
No fungicide can "cure" a rotten neck once it turns brown/white. Flock must be applied preventively at the booting stage to stop the infection before it starts.
3. Is it safe for fish in paddy fields?
No. Tricyclazole is harmful to aquatic life. Do not use in rice-fish farming systems or allow runoff into fish ponds.
4. What is the price of Flock?
It is a cost-effective solution, generally costing between ₹175 – ₹185 per acre dosage, making it excellent value for yield protection.
5. Can I mix it with other pesticides?
Flock is generally compatible with common insecticides. However, avoid mixing with highly alkaline products (like Bordeaux mixture).
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.
