UPI’s soil fumigant Paladin receives US registration

Paladin, a novel, preplant soil fumigant that controls weeds, soil-borne plant pathogens and nematodes, has received U.S. registration by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Developed and distributed by United Phosphorus, Inc. (UPI) in partnership with Arkema Inc., Paladin is a new and effective soil fumigant that contains the active ingredient dimethyl disulfide (DMDS). DMDS is naturally occurring in the environment and produced biologically in plants, animals and processed foods, making Paladin an excellent replacement of methyl bromide. Paladin is the only soil fumigant on the market that contains an EPA signal word of "WARNING", and Paladin has no ozone depletion potential, a low global-warming potential, and is short-lived in the atmosphere.

Paladin soil fumigant is registered for preplant use on tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers, melons, squash, blueberries, strawberries, field-grown ornamentals and forest nursery crops.

Since 2004, Paladin soil fumigants efficacy and crop safety have been assessed and confirmed through extensive R&D studies and over 250 field trials in 15 countries. From 2007-2010, extensive research was conducted on the use of Paladin through EPA-approved Experimental Use Permits (EUP). More than 20 cooperators in three states were involved in these studies. There were 39 different EUP sites with field trial results collected over a treated area of 117 acres.

"We are excited to bring this new, innovative product to the market and have Paladin as a part of our continuing efforts to bring real value to our customers," says Jeff Allison, president UPI, North America. "Paladin is an effective alternative to methyl bromide, and UPI is proud to be a part of this groundbreaking technology."

A Paladin soil fumigant program will consist of a tank mixture of 79% Paladin and 21% chloropicrin (79:21 wt/wt). This program will enhance the effectiveness for soil-borne diseases and weed control. UPI also recommends that Paladin is followed by a preplant non-incorporated bed surface application of a herbicide, such as Devrinol, just prior to laying the plastic mulch to increase the control of small-seeded broadleaf and grass escapes.

"This Paladin program shows the depth of the UPI portfolio and the value options we bring to growers," says Allison.

Paladin is a Restricted Use Pesticide. Always refer to and follow the federal label requirements for crops, specific use rates, REI, PHI and application directions. Paladin is a registered trademark of Arkema Inc. Devrinol is registered trademark of United Phosphorus, Inc.