RESTRICTIONS on a leading fungicidal seed treatment have been lifted, allowing the product to be used on spring-sown wheat and barley.

For the past year, Rancona i-MIX haD been restricted to autumn use only, preventing treated seed from being planted after January 31. Now, the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) has lifted the constraint, meaning growers can use the dual-purpose fungicide throughout the year to combat a range of soil-borne diseases in both wheat and barley.

Business development manager for UPL UK, David Ramdhian, said: “Regaining spring use on Rancona i-MIX is a huge bonus for growers, who will be looking for added reassurance for the large volume of spring sown cereals planned, following the inclement weather and therefore difficult drilling conditions we experienced in the autumn.

“Crop establishment is more important than ever this spring, and with limited dual-purpose fungicide seed treatments available, we are delighted with this timely decision to allow spring use on wheat and barley seed this coming season.”

Rancona i-MIX contains imazalil – an active ingredient known for its premium control of leaf stripe – and is combined with ipconazole, which offers effective control of microdochium nivale, as well as loose smut.

The new label now also includes the suppression of ergot germination – a fungus becoming more problematic in seed.

The product is made from an innovative micro emulsion formulation, which gives improved contact with pathogens and also reduces dust levels, for better operator safety.