Aktara: an effective pest control solution for cucumbers in greenhouses

Aktara is an insecticide with intestinal and contact action that protects cucumber varieties from aphids, thrips, and whiteflies. It is ineffective against insects with thick chitinous coverings and has no effect on larvae, caterpillars, or pest eggs. Aktara is used on greenhouse cucumbers and open-field vegetable crops. When used according to instructions, the chemical poses no harm to human health.

Description and effectiveness of the drug Aktara

The active ingredient, thiamethoxam, accumulates in the leaves and stems of cucumbers. The active ingredient concentration is 250 g/kg. The product kills insects when the toxin enters their chitinous coverings and through the digestive system. Thirty minutes after the toxin enters the pest's body, feeding ceases, and within 24 hours, death occurs due to paralysis of the nervous system. The product's advantages include:

• low consumption rate – 4 g of chemical is enough to treat cucumber plantings;
• effectively removes insects living on the back of the leaf;
• long-lasting protective effect – up to 60 days;
• the result does not depend on weather conditions;
• absence of pungent odor;
• Toxic substances do not accumulate in fruits.

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This chemical is manufactured by Syngenta. It is compatible with most pesticides, fungicides, and growth regulators. Do not use Aktara concurrently with alkaline products. If using multiple products, consult their instructions. Add the products one at a time to the same container. If the solution changes color or a precipitate forms, do not combine the products.

Instructions for using Aktara for cucumbers

For preventative purposes, water cucumbers at the roots once per season. Before applying, check the weather forecast. Apply on a dry, windless day; precipitation will not affect the effect of the product. The dosage is the same for cucumbers grown in greenhouses and open fields.

To protect cucumber seedlings with Aktara, use the following dosage when preparing the solution: 2 g of poison per 1 liter of water. Soak the plant roots in the solution for 2 hours. To allow pests to adapt to the chemical composition, it is recommended to alternate insecticides used for treating cucumbers. Aktara can be replaced with the following products:

• Charita;
• Cruiser;
• Celeste Max;
• Voliam Flexi.

It is recommended to carry out the treatment during the growing season; the entire plant must be treated during the spraying process. The protective period is 30 days with irrigation and 60 days with root watering. When applied to the soil, thiamethoxam is quickly absorbed by the cucumber root system, distributed throughout the plant, and provides comprehensive protection. Aktara is effective against harmful insects on other vegetable crops, such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers.

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Preparation of solution and frequency of use

Preparatory work should be carried out outdoors. Prepare the working mixture according to the instructions for use:

1. Prepare the solution in a plastic or glass container. Do not use food-grade utensils.
2. Dilute the required dose of the chemical in 1 liter of liquid at 25ºС and stir vigorously.
3. Bring the solution to the required volume.
4. For ease of use, pour the working fluid into a fine-mesh spray bottle. Shake the container periodically during use.

To prepare the solution, water with a pH of 5.5-7 is required. Higher pH values ​​alter the chemical properties of the solution. Citric acid (4 g) or 9% acetic acid (6 ml) can help reduce water hardness; the dosages given are for 10 liters of water. Another method is to soften the water with peat: soak 100 g of the substance in a bucket of water for 24 hours.

Precautions when working

This chemical is classified as toxicity class 3, so eye, respiratory, and skin protection must be worn while working. A respirator, safety glasses, protective suit, and gloves are recommended. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited while working. After completing the procedure, wash your hands, rinse your mouth, shower, and launder your work clothes. Work away from apiaries and bodies of water, and keep children and animals away from the garden.

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The duration of application of Aktara is no more than 1 hour. If signs of poisoning appear (weakness, dizziness, nausea), discontinue application and take the following measures:

• if a toxic substance comes into contact with the skin and mucous membranes, rinse with cool water;
• In case of accidental ingestion, take activated charcoal, induce vomiting, and seek medical attention.

Storage rules

It is recommended to store the insecticide in a cool, dark place. The shelf life is 4 years. The recommended storage temperature is -10°C to +35°C. Store the chemicals separately from medications and food products. Store the toxic substance out of the reach of children and pets. After use, the container in which the chemical was stored must be incinerated.

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If the packet contains more Actara than required for treatment, the granules should be poured onto a piece of paper and divided into equal doses using a toothpick. Store the product in a sealed plastic bag, avoiding high humidity and sudden temperature fluctuations.

For maximum effectiveness, it's important to follow the recommended dosage and apply Aktara at the optimal time. With proper care and timely pest control, cucumbers will maintain growth, bloom, and fruit abundantly.