Melvin Fungicide (Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP) by Nichino
The "Green Label" Systemic Expert for Complete Disease Protection.
Melvin is a high-quality systemic fungicide designed to protect your high-value crops like Apple, Grapes, and Papaya. Manufactured by Nichino India, it contains Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP. It works by entering the plant system to cure existing fungal infections and prevent new ones from starting.
Unlike older chemicals, Melvin carries a Green Label, meaning it is safer for the applicator while remaining deadly to fungus. It also contains sulphur elements that provide a "phytotonic" boost, making your crop look greener and healthier.
Why Choose Melvin Fungicide? Key Benefits
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Dual Action Power: Acts as both a preventive shield (stops disease before it starts) and a curative medicine (stops disease spread after infection).
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Green Label Safety: Classified as "Slightly Toxic," making it a safer choice for farmers compared to harsher Red or Yellow label chemicals.
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Systemic Protection: The medicine is absorbed by the plant and moves upward, protecting even the new leaves that grow after spraying.
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Weather Resistant: Because it is absorbed into the plant system, it is not easily washed away by rain once dry.
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Plant Health Booster: Provides a "Phytotonic effect" due to its sulphur content, helping crops maintain vigorous, green growth.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Melvin |
| Technical Name | Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 1 (Benzimidazole) |
| Chemical Group | Thiourea (Benzimidazole precursor) |
| Formulation | Wettable Powder (WP) |
| Toxicity Label | Green Triangle (Slightly Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Melvin works by disrupting the fungal cell division process. It targets the "skeleton" of the fungal cell (microtubules), making it impossible for the fungus to grow or reproduce.
- Absorption: Upon spraying, the active ingredient is quickly absorbed by the leaves and roots of the plant.
- Translocation: It moves upward (acropetally) through the plant's water vessels (xylem), reaching leaf tips and new growth.
- Inhibition: When the fungus tries to feed or divide, Melvin stops its cell division (mitosis), effectively killing the pathogen.
Note: This mode of action is highly specific, which is why it is safe for the plant but deadly to the fungus.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Apple | Scab (Venturia inaequalis) |
| Grapes | Powdery Mildew, Anthracnose, Rust |
| Papaya | Powdery Mildew |
| Bottle Gourd | Anthracnose |
| Tomato | Ring Rot, Leaf Spots |
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) | Approx. Dose (g / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | 300 g | 400+ L (Tree Volume) | 0.75 g | 3-7 |
| Grapes | 300 g | 200 L | 1.5 g | 7-14 |
| Papaya / Tomato | 300 g | 150 - 200 L | 1.5 - 2 g | 5-7 |
| Bottle Gourd | 600 g | 200 - 300 L | 2 - 3 g | 5-7 |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply as a preventive spray (before disease is severe) or at the very first sign of disease (Pink Bud stage in Apples). Avoid spraying when harvest is very close.
- Mixing: Premix the powder in a small amount of water to make a slurry before adding it to the main tank. Do not mix with highly alkaline products like Bordeaux mixture or Lime Sulphur.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the foliage. While it is systemic, good coverage accelerates the uptake process.
- Resistance Management: Do not use Melvin alone repeatedly. Mix or rotate with fungicides like Mancozeb or Captan to prevent the fungus from becoming resistant.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Melvin cure disease after it has started?
Yes, Melvin has curative action. If applied within 24-48 hours of infection, it can stop the fungal growth inside the plant tissue.
2. Is Melvin safe for the applicator?
Melvin carries a Green Label (Slightly Toxic), making it one of the safer fungicides available. However, standard protective gear should always be worn.
3. Can I mix Melvin with other pesticides?
Yes, it is compatible with most insecticides and fungicides like Mancozeb and Propiconazole. Avoid mixing with alkaline substances like Bordeaux mixture.
4. Why is the dose for Bottle Gourd higher?
Bottle Gourd and similar creepers grow very fast and have high biomass. A higher dose (600g/acre) ensures enough medicine reaches the entire vine.
5. What is the benefit of the Sulphur content?
The organic sulphur in Melvin acts as a nutrient, improving the plant's natural defense and making leaves appear greener and healthier (Phytotonic effect).
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.
