Sai Samarth Chemicals

• Multi-purpose soil fumigant

• Controls nematodes, weeds, fungi, and soil-borne pathogens

• Decomposes into MITC for in-soil pest control

• Cost-effective and easy to apply via injection, drenching, or irrigation

• Useful in both open fields and greenhouses

Metam sodium is a broad-spectrum soil fumigant used primarily for soil disinfestation before planting. When applied to moist soil, it decomposes to methyl isothiocyanate (MITC), a volatile gas that controls a wide range of soilborne pests and pathogens.

• Upon contact with water, metam sodium breaks down into MITC, which is toxic to many organisms.

• MITC penetrates the soil air spaces and acts by disrupting cellular metabolism in target pests.

• It is non-selective, affecting fungi, bacteria, nematodes, weed seeds, and insects.

Metam sodium is used to control:

• Soilborne fungi: Verticillium, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium

• Nematodes (various species)

• Weed seeds and seedlings

• Soil insects such as wireworms and symphylans

• Pre-plant soil treatment (commonly 2–3 weeks before planting)

• Applied as a liquid by:

  • Shank injection

  • Drip (chemigation) systems

  • Rotary tiller or spray seal methods

• After application, soil is typically sealed (tarped or compacted) and irrigated to retain MITC vapors.

• Toxicity: Moderate to high; MITC vapors are irritating to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract.

• Protective measures: Proper PPE and restricted-entry intervals are required.

• Environmental fate: Decomposes in soil and water; relatively low persistence but can off-gas if not properly sealed.

• Regulatory status: Classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) in many countries due to toxicity and volatility.

• 150–400 lbs active ingredient per acre (≈ 170–450 L/ha) depending on soil type, pest pressure, and application method.

Advantages:

• Broad-spectrum control of multiple soil pests.

• Alternative to methyl bromide (post-phase-out).

• Applicable through various irrigation systems.

Limitations:

• Requires careful application to avoid MITC exposure.

• Variable efficacy depending on soil moisture, temperature, and sealing quality.

• Plant-back intervals are needed to prevent phytotoxicity.