MasterCop® Fungicide/Bactericide from MANA approved by EPA

MasterCop® fungicide/bactericide, from MANA Crop Protection, has received approval by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its new copper complex formulation of copper sulfate pentahydrate, delivering superior bioactivity for the control of bacterial and fungal diseases on citrus, vegetables, tree nuts, small fruits, vines and field crops.

Using MANA Crop Protection proprietary technology, new MasterCop touts a state of the art formulation which allows for targeted rates of copper to be delivered efficiently and effectively for broad spectrum disease management. With BioRetain™ technology as a key component of its formulation, MasterCop’s penetration into the plant cuticle improves performance per pound of active ingredient. This novel uptake system also enhances retention and residual activity while providing superior safety to the crop.

"As the premier copper solution for bacterial and fungal diseases, MasterCop delivers all the proven performance features that growers want from copper-based inputs, but with improved bioactivity, less stringent management and superior environmental qualities,” says Keith Miller, product leaders with MANA Crop Protection. “As a solution-based concentrate, MasterCop requires less attention to handling and storage, with no mixing or shaking of jugs.”

Miller continues in saying that MasterCop’s unique formulation prohibits copper within its solution from settling, which is problematic for most traditional delivery systems in this input category. “This extends the shelf life of MasterCop - with inventory accessible for use beyond just one season,” he says. “This outstanding formulation property also reduces nozzle wear and provides more accurate spray coverage at time of application, which growers and applicators will immediately value upon first time use.”

MasterCop provides locally systemic and preventive methods for disease control, which is one of the critical benefits of copper complex inputs on high-value crops. 

MANA Crop Protection recommends MasterCop be applied at one pint per acre for annual crops and two pints per acre for permanent crops. Higher application rates are allowed for bacterial and fungal disease control when used according to label guidelines for selective crops.

Specific to industry concerns about soil-loading from copper-based inputs used on high-value crop acres, MasterCop’s efficient use rate significantly reduces the impact on soil-loading versus traditional copper products. The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is currently evaluating MasterCop regarding formulation qualities and benefits specific to this topic. MANA Crop Protection anticipates OMRI certification in 2013.

"Copper continues to play a critical role in controlling fungal and bacterial diseases - especially as growers become increasingly worried about commonly used compounds having resistance issues,” Miller says. “Growers who rely on MasterCop this year will glean the disease protection they’ve come to expect from copper inputs, but with the added benefits of greater efficacy, easier handling and an improved environmental protect profile.”