Gem Fungicide (Nichino) | Mancozeb 64% + Metalaxyl 8% WP
A dual-action masterpiece from Nichino India combining Japanese technology with reliable disease control for Grapes, Potato, and Spices.
Gem is a specialized wettable powder (WP) formulation that fights the toughest fungal diseases, such as Downy Mildew and Late Blight. By combining two powerful active ingredients, it offers a "kick-back" curative effect that stops hidden infections while creating a robust protective shield on the leaf surface. It is the perfect solution for farmers looking to protect high-value crops from Oomycete pathogens.
Best For: Grapes, Potato, Black Pepper, Tobacco, and Mustard.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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The "Kick-Back" Curative Action: Stops fungal growth even if applied 24-48 hours after infection begins, saving crops when rains delay spraying.
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Double Protection Power: Combines Systemic action (works from inside) and Contact action (works on the surface) to prevent resistance.
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Protects New Growth: The systemic component moves upwards in the plant, protecting new leaves and shoots that emerge after spraying.
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Rainfast Reliability: The systemic Metalaxyl is absorbed within 1-2 hours, ensuring internal protection even if it rains shortly after application.
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Greener, Healthier Crops: Mancozeb provides essential Zinc and Manganese nutrition, helping maintain lush green foliage while fighting disease.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Gem |
| Technical Name | Mancozeb 64% + Metalaxyl 8% WP |
| IRAC MoA Code | M3 (Mancozeb) + 4 (Metalaxyl) |
| Chemical Group | Dithiocarbamate + Phenylamide |
| Formulation | Wettable Powder (WP) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Gem utilizes a synergistic "One-Two Punch" strategy to manage Oomycete fungi like Phytophthora and Plasmopara.
- Systemic Curative (Metalaxyl): Absorbed rapidly by roots and leaves, it inhibits RNA synthesis in the fungus. It travels upwards (acropetally) to protect new shoots and halts incubating infections from the inside.
- Contact Preventive (Mancozeb): Remains on the leaf surface as a toxic barrier. It inhibits fungal enzyme activity at multiple sites, preventing spores from germinating and entering the plant.
- Resistance Management: Because Mancozeb attacks multiple sites, it kills any pathogens that might try to develop resistance to the systemic Metalaxyl component.
This dual mechanism ensures that the disease is stopped immediately while providing long-duration residual control.
Target Crops & Pests
[Image of Downy Mildew on Grape Leaf]| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Grapes | Downy Mildew (Plasmopara viticola) |
| Potato | Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans) |
| Black Pepper | Foot Rot / Quick Wilt (Phytophthora capsici) |
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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grapes | 1000 - 2500 g | 500 - 1000 L | 2.5 g | 49 Days |
| Potato | 1000 - 2500 g | 500 - 1000 L | 2.5 g | 49 Days |
| Black Pepper | 2.5g per Vine | 5 L / Vine | 2.5 g (Drench) | 147 Days (21 Wks) |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. Note the long PHI for Pepper due to export regulations.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Use preventively or at the very first sign of disease. For grapes, apply during vegetative growth and pre-bloom. Avoid late-season use due to residue risks.
- Mixing: Premix the required quantity of Gem in a small amount of water to form a slurry before adding it to the main spray tank. Agitate well.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the foliage. For soil-borne diseases like Foot Rot in Pepper, a soil drench around the root zone is mandatory.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Avoid inhalation of dust during mixing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Gem cure disease after it has started?
Yes, Gem has a "kick-back" effect. If applied within 24-48 hours of infection (before severe symptoms appear), the systemic Metalaxyl can halt the fungus inside the plant.
2. Is Gem rainfast?
The Metalaxyl component is absorbed rapidly (within 1-2 hours) and becomes rainfast. However, the Mancozeb component needs about 24 hours of dry weather to form a stable protective layer.
3. Can I use Gem continuously?
No. To prevent resistance, do not use Gem for more than 2-4 sprays per season. Rotate with fungicides that have different modes of action (like QoI or CAA groups).
4. What is the PHI for Black Pepper?
Black Pepper has a strict PHI of 21 weeks (147 days). This means Gem should be used early in the season (Pre-Monsoon) to ensure no residues are detected in the harvested spice.
5. Is it safe for fish?
No, Gem is toxic to aquatic life. Do not wash spray equipment in ponds, rivers, or canals. Maintain a buffer zone from water bodies during application.
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. Pregnant women should avoid exposure to this product.
