Epin-Extra: the key to strong seedlings

Epin Extra is a biostimulant used for growing fruit and vegetable crops. It stimulates plant growth and accelerates seedling emergence. It is often used to strengthen the immune system of vegetable crops grown in unfavorable conditions or to increase resistance to pests and pathogens. For cucumbers, Epin Extra is used, according to the instructions, for soaking seeds before planting and for spraying seedlings.

Description and operating principle

Epin Extra is a liquid stimulant of synthetic origin. It is sold in 1 ml ampoules. Its small size makes it convenient for home use. Its main active ingredient is the plant-derived hormone 24-epibrassinolide. Its concentration is 0.025 g/L.

The product contains alcohol as a preservative. It is completely environmentally friendly, as it contains no harsh ingredients. It does not inhibit the natural growth of plants. The product decomposes when exposed to sunlight. Overdosing on Epin is impossible, as plant tissues do not absorb excess amounts of the stimulant.

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Treating cucumber plants with Epin Extra solution provides the following results:

• increase in vegetable crop yield by 15%;
• neutralization of the effects of heavy metals and toxic substances present in the soil;
• reducing the concentration of nitrates and pesticides in ripe fruits;
• improving seed germination;
• active growth of young shoots;
• increase in fruit weight;
• early ripening of the crop;
• increasing the shelf life of harvested cucumbers.

After treatment, the product quickly penetrates the plant tissue. It has a long period of action, as it is designed for crops with a medium growing season. Re-treatment of cucumber bushes is carried out 2-3 weeks after the previous spraying. This time is sufficient for the complete elimination of phytohormones.

Spraying cucumber seedlings with a stimulant is useful for protecting them from diseases such as bacterial wilt, fusarium wilt, and downy mildew. The stimulant promotes the recovery of weakened plants and encourages them to produce more lateral shoots.

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How to use

To prepare the working solution, the concentrate is diluted in slightly acidified water, as an alkaline environment reduces the effectiveness of the stimulant. To achieve the desired reaction, add a small amount of vinegar or citric acid to the bucket.

Before sowing, select cucumber seeds are soaked for 2 hours in a solution made from 100 ml of water and 2-3 drops of Epin Extra. The solution is then warmed to room temperature. After soaking, the seeds germinate quickly, and the emerging seedlings develop vigorously.

Seedlings can be sprayed on the foliage with a solution of 5 liters of water and 1 ml of the product. This treatment is performed before transplanting the seedlings to their permanent location. A second spraying is performed 10 days after transplanting. To increase yield and improve the taste of cucumbers, spray the bushes when the second pair of leaves is forming. The final treatment is performed during flowering.

For mature cucumber plants, the stimulant is used in emergency situations, such as after frost, accidental stem damage, pest attacks, or fungal infections. In these cases, treatment is carried out with a solution of 250 ml of water and 15 drops of concentrate. Weakened plants quickly recover under the influence of the stimulant. Spray twice, 10 days apart.

To protect cucumbers from pests, a stimulant is used in combination with insecticides. First, insect-infested plants are sprayed with chemicals. After the pests are destroyed, the foliage of healthy plants is treated with a 2% solution of the stimulant. Thanks to the combined action of these agents, the cucumber plants quickly recover.

Rules for using the stimulator:

1. The active ingredients in Epin Extra are not absorbed through the root system. Therefore, the solution is not used for irrigation.
2. For healthy plants, three preventative treatments throughout the growing season are sufficient.
3. Use the prepared solution immediately after mixing. Long-term storage will cause the beneficial properties of the preparation to be lost.
4. When spraying bushes, the product is applied to the underside of the leaves, since there are more stomata there, through which the active substances enter the plant tissue.
5. "Epin Extra" does not replace the effects of mineral and organic fertilizers. Therefore, scheduled fertilizing should not be abandoned.
6. Before using the stimulant, remove broken shoots and clean the plant of pests.

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Precautionary measures

According to the manufacturer, the Epin Extra stimulator is suitable for use with any organic and mineral fertilizers. It can be used simultaneously with pesticides and any other products that protect plants from infections and pests. The product can be mixed in the same container.

The stimulant is classified as a substance with hazard classes 3 and 4. It is harmless to humans, pets, beneficial insects, and fish. Therefore, there is no need to wear personal protective equipment when diluting the working solution and treating the plants. Regular rubber gloves are sufficient. After treating the cucumber bushes, wash your hands and face with warm water and soap. Empty stimulant packaging can be disposed of with household waste; no special disposal is required.

Epin Extra contains ethyl alcohol. Therefore, if it comes into contact with mucous membranes or eyes, rinse the affected area with running water. If the concentrate is accidentally swallowed, rinse the mouth. It is then recommended to give the victim plenty of water to induce vomiting. If possible, seek medical attention or take several sorbent tablets.

The product has a shelf life of 3 years from the date of manufacture. Store in a cool, dark place with low humidity. Do not store the biostimulant near medications or food. After dilution, use the product within 24 hours. Do not expose it to sunlight. Discard any remaining solution down the drain.

The Epin Extra stimulant activates natural biological processes in plants. It improves seed germination and accelerates seedling growth. Treatment with the product strengthens plant immunity, improving their resistance to insect pests and pathogens causing viral and fungal infections. After spraying with Epin, the need for chemicals is reduced. As a result, the ecological value of the harvest increases.