Thiophen Extra

Dual Action: The Science Behind Thiofen Extra

The efficiency of vineyard protection against complex fungal diseases depends on the synergy of its active ingredients. Thiofen Extra is a combined systemic and contact fungicide where the technical edge lies in the combination of benzimidazoles and triazoles. By integrating thiophanate-methyl and penconazole, the formulation provides comprehensive control over powdery mildew (oidium) and grey mold (botrytis).

Technical Component Analysis

• Thiophanate-methyl (Benzimidazoles): Works by inhibiting the nuclear division of fungal cells (mitosis inhibition). Possessing systemic properties, it rapidly penetrates plant tissues, providing both curative and preventive effects. This is critical for grape protection as it stops spore development even after the infection process has begun.
• Penconazole (Triazoles): Acts as a heavy hitter against powdery mildew by blocking the biosynthesis of ergosterol in the pathogen's cell membranes. Penconazole is characterized by its high penetration speed, making it indispensable during weather fluctuations when the risk of an oidium outbreak is at its peak.

Practical Application Aspects

The product is formulated as a water-based suspension concentrate. This formulation enhances the retention of the working solution on the waxy cuticle of the vine, increasing resistance to wash-off by rain. From an agronomic perspective, the systemic nature of the product ensures that not only the treated areas but also new growth emerging after application remains protected.

With an application rate of 1.0 to 2.0 L/ha, the product allows for flexible adjustment of protection intensity depending on the crop growth stage and infection pressure. Given the limit of 3 applications per season, the most rational strategy is to use the fungicide during critical vegetation phases — pre-flowering and during berry development — when the risk of grey mold infection is highest.