About Safe Root
Safe Root (Trichoderma harzianum 1% WP) by Multiplex is a bio-pesticide used for controlling plant parasitic nematodes in the root zone. It effectively controls root-knot nematodes, reniform nematodes, cyst nematodes, lesion nematodes, burrowing nematodes, citrus nematodes and potato cyst nematodes in crops such as tomato and okra (bhindi), By helping healthy roots form, Safe Root supports better absorption of nutrients and water, which in turn leads to healthy plant growth and increased yield. It works by producing a substance that acts on the eggs, adults and free-living stages of nematodes, and is suitable for seed treatment, nursery bed treatment and soil application in recommended crops.
Safe Root Technical Composition
Trichoderma harzianum 1% w/w (CFU count: 2 x 10⁶/gm min)
Strain: IIHR-TH-2, Accession No. ITCC 6888
Mode of Action
Safe Root produces a substance that acts on the eggs, adults and free-living stages of plant parasitic nematodes, causing deformations and loss of movement. Safe Root is also able to penetrate the nematode egg, grow inside it, and destroy the embryo, which helps bring down nematode populations in the root zone.
Key Features and Benefits of Safe Root
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Controls a wide range of plant parasitic nematodes: Effective against root-knot nematodes, reniform nematodes, cyst nematodes, lesion nematodes, burrowing nematodes, citrus nematodes and potato cyst nematodes.
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Acts on multiple nematode life stages: Works on nematode eggs, adults and free-living stages, including penetrating and destroying the embryo inside the egg.
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Supports healthy root formation: Helps in healthy root formation, which allows the plant to absorb nutrients and water as and when required.
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Leads to better plant growth and yield: Healthy root development leads to healthy plant growth, which in turn results in increased yield.
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Phytotoxicity: Not phytotoxic to the crop at the recommended dosage.
Safe Root Dosage and Recommended Crops
Crops |
Target Pests |
Application Method |
Dosage |
Growth Stage/Time of Application |
Tomato |
Root-knot nematode, Wilt |
Seed Treatment |
20 gm per kg of seeds |
Before sowing |
Nursery Bed Treatment |
50 gm per square metre |
Before transplanting |
Soil Application |
2 kg per acre with enriched FYM at 2 tons per acre |
Before transplanting |
Okra |
Root-knot nematode, Wilt |
Seed Treatment |
20 gm per kg of seeds |
Before sowing |
Nursery Bed Treatment |
50 gm per square metre |
Before transplanting |
Soil Application |
2 kg per acre with enriched FYM at 2 tons per acre |
Before transplanting |
Method of Application
- Seed Treatment: Treat seeds with Safe Root at 20 gm per kg of seeds before sowing.
- Nursery Bed Treatment: Treat nursery beds with Safe Root at 50 gm per square metre.
- Soil Application: Apply Safe Root enriched FYM to the soil before transplanting, at the rate specified in the dosage table above.
- FYM Enrichment: To enrich farm yard manure, add 1 kg of Safe Root to 1 ton of farm yard manure or compost. Leave the enriched FYM under shade for 15 days, maintaining optimum moisture, and mix thoroughly at an interval of 5 days.
Best Time to Apply: Apply Safe Root before sowing or before transplanting, as detailed in the dosage table above.
Compatibility, Safety and Storage
Tank-Mix Compatibility
Do not mix Safe Root with fungicides. It is best to consult an agronomist before mixing it with any other product.
Safety Precautions
- Wear gloves while handling and applying, as a standard precaution.
- Avoid application during peak sun or windy conditions.
- Avoid eating, drinking or smoking while handling or applying the product.
- Wash hands and any exposed skin thoroughly after use.
- Keep the product out of reach of children and pets.
- Avoid direct contact with eyes and skin.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry and well ventilated place, away from direct sunlight, and keep the product in its original sealed container.
Safe Root Expert Advice
"For best results, apply at the right crop stage, a seed treatment before sowing, followed by a nursery bed treatment and a soil application enriched with FYM before transplanting, so the crop's root system gets protected from nematodes right from the start." – BigHaat Agronomy Expert
Additional Information
- Do not apply Safe Root on chemically treated seeds.
- Besides tomato and okra, Safe Root is also positioned for use on other solanaceous vegetables, banana, pomegranate, tobacco, soybean, potato, cotton and tuber crops; farmers should confirm crop-specific dosage with the manufacturer or an agronomist before use on these crops.
- Farmers should always check the current product label before using, as availability can change from time to time.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for reference purposes only. Always follow the recommended application guidelines outlined on the product label and accompanying leaflet.