Waxes

Waxes in plant protection products are a group of natural or synthetic compounds used as auxiliary substances (adjuvants). They modify the physical and chemical properties of the spray solution, allowing it to remain on the leaf surface for a longer period.

The primary mechanism of action involves the formation of a protective micro-film on the surface of vegetative plant parts. This significantly reduces the risk of pesticide wash-off by precipitation and prevents premature evaporation of the active ingredient.

The application of wax-based additives facilitates better penetration of systemic pesticides through the plant's cuticular layer. They help overcome the barrier formed by the plant's own epicuticular waxes, ensuring more effective delivery of the active component.

The use of this group of substances allows for the adjustment of the surface tension of spray droplets. This increases the coverage area during spraying, which is crucial for crops with hairy or waxy leaves.

In modern formulations, waxes can increase the stability of active ingredients against ultraviolet radiation, preventing the photo-degradation of pesticide molecules on the open field.

Products based on waxes are used to increase the efficiency of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides on a wide range of agricultural crops.

They are particularly effective when treating crops with difficult-to-wet leaf surfaces, such as brassicas, cereals, or crops with thick natural wax layers.

Their use is justified in controlling pests that are protected by their own waxy secretions, where adjuvants help to dissolve or penetrate this barrier for better contact with the chemical.

Wax additives are essential when working in unstable weather conditions, where there is a high risk of rapid moisture evaporation or sudden rainfall.

They are also used in anti-transpirants to reduce moisture evaporation by the plant itself, helping crops withstand drought periods more easily.

Application rates for wax adjuvants are determined based on the total volume of the spray solution and the developmental stage of the crop. Typically, they range from 0.1% to 0.5% of the total solution volume.

Timing of application is strictly linked to the primary pesticide treatment. Waxes should be added to the sprayer tank in strict accordance with the mixing instructions to avoid precipitation.

It is important to consider the concentration of the main active ingredient, as an excessive amount of wax additives may negatively affect the systemic properties of the product.

When spraying in hot weather, it is recommended to increase the water volume while maintaining the proportion of the wax additive to ensure uniform surface coverage.

Visual monitoring of the treated field quality is recommended a few hours after application to evaluate the uniformity of the spray distribution.

The main limitation is the potential incompatibility of certain types of waxes with specific emulsifiable concentrates or micronutrient fertilizers.

It is not recommended to use wax additives during the flowering stage, as excessive coverage may interfere with pollination or affect the permeability of pollen tissues.

When working with crops intended for processing, it is necessary to strictly follow the pre-harvest intervals established for the specific primary pesticide.

Avoid using waxes under conditions of high humidity if it could lead to blocking the plant's gas exchange (respiration), which may trigger the development of fungal infections.

Always conduct a compatibility test in a small container before preparing a full tank mix to avoid clogging sprayer nozzles and equipment damage.