The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) recently announced the approval of a minor use label expansion registration for Rootshield HC biological fungicide for suppression of Botrytis blight caused by Botrytis cinerea and root rot caused by Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia spp. and Fusarium spp. on Asian water spinach in Canada. This product was already labeled for use on a wide variety of crops in Canada for control of several diseases.

According to Jim Chaput, OMAFRA minor use coordinator, this is the first ever minor use on Asian water spinach (also known as tung choy, kankon, rao muong) in Canada and was submitted by Ontario as a result of minor use priorities established by growers and extension personnel.

The following is provided as an abbreviated, general outline only. Users should be making pest management decisions within a robust integrated disease management program and should consult the complete label before using Rootshield HC biological fungicide.

Do not apply or allow drift of Rootshield HC biological fungicide to other crops or non- target areas. Do not contaminate off-target areas or aquatic habitats when spraying or when cleaning and rinsing spray equipment or containers.

Follow all other precautions, restrictions and directions for use on the Rootshield  HC biological fungicide label carefully.

For a copy of the new minor use label contact your local crop specialist, regional supply outlet or visit the PMRA label site.  

Source:  Jim Chaput, minor use coordinator, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs