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Pesticide guide

Methyl Bromide

Fumigant Methyl Bromide

Description

Methyl bromide is a soil and storage fumigant that works by releasing a gas that kills pests, diseases, and weeds. The word 'fumigant' means it creates a gas or vapor that spreads through the air or soil to kill harmful organisms. When you apply methyl bromide, it releases a gas that moves through the soil or storage area and kills many different types of pests including nematodes, fungi, bacteria, weeds, and insects. This is very useful for preparing soil before planting or for treating stored products. However, it's very important to know that methyl bromide is extremely dangerous and is being phased out or restricted in many countries because it damages the ozone layer and is very harmful to people and the environment. It can cause serious health problems and even death if not handled correctly. You must never use it without proper training and special protective equipment. If it is still allowed in your area, you must apply it only before planting, and then you must wait the required number of days (usually 14-21 days or more) before you can plant your crops. The area must be covered with plastic sheeting after application to keep the gas contained. You must never apply it when crops are growing, and you must never breathe the gas or get it on your skin. Always check local regulations - methyl bromide may be banned or restricted in your area. Always follow the label instructions very carefully, wear all recommended protective equipment, and make sure you have proper training before using this product.

Application rates

General

50-100 kg per hectare

Application method

Soil application Storage fumigation

Target pests

Nematodes Fungi Bacteria Weeds Insects Storage pests

Application timing

Pre-planting: apply to soil before planting. Cover with plastic sheeting. Wait 14-21 days or more before planting. Storage: apply in sealed storage areas.

Safety period

14-21 days or more before planting

Precautions

Extremely dangerous - damages ozone layer. May be banned or restricted. Requires special training and protective equipment. Never apply when crops are growing. Cover area with plastic. Keep away from people and animals. Check local regulations.

Crop compatibility

Vegetables Fruits Field crops Stored products

Benefits

  • Kills wide variety of pests and diseases
  • Effective against nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and insects
  • Useful for soil treatment and storage fumigation
  • Single application controls multiple problems
  • Effective for preparing soil and treating stored products

Best for

  • Soil treatment before planting (if allowed)
  • Storage fumigation for stored products
  • Areas with severe pest problems
  • Greenhouses and protected cultivation (if allowed)

Usage tips

  • Check local regulations - may be banned or restricted
  • Apply only before planting - never when crops are growing
  • Cover area with plastic sheeting after application
  • Wait required period (14-21 days) before planting
  • Requires special training and protective equipment
  • Extremely dangerous - follow all safety procedures

Storage instructions

Store in original container in cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container tightly closed. Store away from food, feed, water sources, and living areas. Follow all storage regulations. Requires special handling. May be restricted or banned.

Mixing compatibility

Not recommended for mixing. Use alone as fumigant. Follow label instructions carefully. Check local regulations.