Caution
The information below is intended only as a guide. Always read product labels carefully.
Product description
Pesticides with citric acid and lactic acid as active ingredients are made from fermentation products of Lactobacillus casei strain LPT-111.
Strain LPT-111 of the Lactobacillus casei bacterium, along with the fermentation products (citric acid and lactic acid) are commonly used in the food industry. In fact, Lactobacillus casei is part of normal human microflora.
These biopesticides are used to control diseases of roses and some fruit and vegetables.
They are available in ready-to-use form or as liquid concentrates to be diluted before use.
Target organisms
Products with citric acid and lactic acid as the active ingredients are used as fungicides and bactericides to control such diseases as:
NB: Check the product label for a detailed list of the plants and target organisms for which the pesticide is intended.
How it works
The citric acid and lactic acid damage the cell membranes of pathogens. The product also creates a physical barrier on the leaf surface that prevents the infection from spreading.
Application
For optimal efficiency, the pesticide should be applied as a preventive treatment or when symptoms first appear.
Before applying it, shake the mixture well. Thoroughly spray the foliage, until it runs off. Be sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Wait 5 to 10 days between treatments.
The product may damage crops and other plants if not mixed or applied properly, so it is important to follow the instructions on the label.
Do not apply the product when heavy rain is forecast.
Precautions
The product may irritate the skin and eyes. Avoid all contact with the eyes, skin or clothing. Avoid inhaling the mist when spraying it. It is best to wear long sleeves and pants, waterproof gloves, goggles and a mask when handling the product.
Wash well with soap and water after handling the product. Contaminated clothing must also be washed.
The pesticide contains the allergen milk (whey protein).
The product may damage some metal surfaces, fences and lawn furniture.
Do not use near any body of water or wetland, or dump any pesticide or rinse your equipment there, as this will contaminate the water. Never dump pesticides down sewers.
To reduce the risk of runoff from treated areas into aquatic habitats, the pesticide should not be applied to sites with moderate to steep slopes or compacted or heavy clay soil.
Keep out of reach of children.