Technical Identity and Dual Mode of Action
Ridomil Gold combines systemic internal translocation with external surface protection.
Key biochemical attributes:
- Metalaxyl-M (Mefenoxam 4%): Systemic phenylamide that inhibits RNA polymerase I in oomycetes, halting fungal ribosomal RNA synthesis.
- Mancozeb (64%): Multi-site dithiocarbamate contact protectant that inactivates vital sulfhydryl-containing enzymes on the plant surface.
- Xylem translocation: Metalaxyl-M is absorbed through leaves and roots and translocated acropetally to protect newly expanding leaves.
- Anti-sporulant action: Rapidly halts mycelial colonization, sporangia formation, and zoospore germination in target pathogens.
Approved Target Crops and Oomycete Diseases
Ridomil Gold is registered under CIBRC guidelines for severe downy mildew and blight outbreaks.
Major registered crop uses:
- Potato and Tomato: Controls late blight (Phytophthora infestans), preventing brown water-soaked foliar lesions and tuber rot.
- Grapes: Provides exceptional protection against downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) on leaves, flower clusters, and young berries.
- Black pepper: Applied as a soil drench and foliar spray to control Phytophthora foot rot (quick wilt).
- Nursery beds: Used as a soil drench to prevent damping-off in vegetable and tobacco nursery seedbeds.
Application Guidelines and Resistance Management
Proper application timing ensures maximum disease control while managing chemical resistance.
Application best practices:
- Preventive timing: Apply before disease symptoms appear or immediately upon first regional blight warnings during cool, humid weather.
- Fungicide rotation: Alternate with non-phenylamide fungicides (such as dimethomorph or copper compounds) to manage resistance.
- Label dose compliance: Measure accurately according to official package instructions; mix thoroughly in clean water.
- Operator safety: Wear personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and a protective mask.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the technical chemical composition of Ridomil Gold?
Ridomil Gold contains Metalaxyl-M 4% (systemic phenylamide) + Mancozeb 64% (contact dithiocarbamate) in a wettable powder (WP) formulation.
What major disease does Ridomil Gold manage in potatoes and tomatoes?
It manages late blight (Phytophthora infestans), protecting both foliage and developing potato tubers from destructive rot.
Why is metalaxyl-M paired with mancozeb in Ridomil Gold?
Pairing systemic metalaxyl-M with multi-site contact mancozeb broadens disease control and prevents the pathogen from developing resistance.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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