Omega 500F fungicide labeled for blueberries

Annemiek Schilder, Michigan State University Extension, Department of Plant Pathology -

Editor’s note: This article is from the archives of the MSU Crop Advisory Team Alerts. Check the label of any pesticide referenced to ensure your use is included.

A new fungicide, Omega 500F (active ingredient: fluazinam) has been labeled for blueberries, currants, gooseberries, and lingonberries. Omega is a reduced-risk fungicide in the chemical group of the 2,6-dinitro-anilines. These fungicides affect respiration in fungal cells by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation. Omega represents a new chemistry and can be used in alternation with other fungicides for fungicide resistance management purposes. Omega itself has a low risk of resistance development due to its multi-site mode of action.

Omega 500F is a non-systemic, broad-spectrum protectant fungicide with good residual efficacy and rainfastness. It is labeled for control of Phomopsis twig blight and fruit rot, anthracnose fruit rot, and Botrytis fruit rot in blueberries. Based on small plot fungicide efficacy trials in Michigan, North Carolina and New Jersey, I would rate the product as fairly good against anthracnose fruit rot, Phomopsis, and Botrytis, and poor against mummy berry. Applications for fruit rots are recommended at seven to 10 day intervals.

Omega may be applied with all types of spray equipment normally used for ground application. Aerial application or application through sprinkler irrigation systems is not recommended. Apply Omega in sufficient water to obtain adequate coverage of the foliage, usually between 20 and 100 gallons per acre. Do not apply Omega within 25 feet of permanent water bodies, such as streams, lakes or reservoirs. Omega is generally compatible with other fungicides, insecticides, fertilizers, and micronutrients. However, a jar test is recommended before tankmixing to test compatibility with tank-mix partners.

The maximum application rate per growing season is 7.5 pints per acre. The PHI (pre-harvest interval) is 30 days. The re-entry interval for Omega 500F is 72 hours for high-exposure activities such as hand-harvesting, pruning, etcetera.

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