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Acti-Min® Sunblock

1 of 4 products in this brand
Acti-Min™ Sunblock kaolin-based mineral product, when properly applied to plant leaves and fruit, forms a dry white barrier film that can provide protective benefits to agricultural crops. Through independent studies1 and a decade of Active Minerals’ Acti-Min kaolin products in commercial field experience, kaolin mineral film barriers have shown effectiveness in reducing plant stress, minimizing sunburn, and enhancing growth across a multitude of crops. This product is OMRI listed for organic use.

Functions: Abiotic Stress Mitigator, Film Former, Growth Stimulant, Heat Stress Mitigator, UV Protectant

Application Technique: Foliage Applied, Sprayers

Features: Approved For Organic Farming, Enhanced Crop Yield & Quality, Improved Appearance, Increased Disease Suppression, Reduces Heat Stress

    Knowde Enhanced TDS

    Identification & Functionality

    Technologies

    Features & Benefits

    Applications & Uses

    Applicable Crop
    Application Technique
    Suggested Usage Rates
    FRUITS RATES
    Berries and Vines 10-60 lbs. per acre per application
    Tree Nuts 25-100 lbs. per acre per application
    Tree Fruits: Citrus, Pome, Stone, Tropical 25-100 lbs. per acre per application

     

    VEGETABLES RATES
    Brassica and Leafy Vegetables 10-30 lbs. per acre per application
    Roots and Tubers 20-60 lbs. per acre per application
    Bulbs, Cucurbits, Legumes, and
    Fruiting Vegetables
    25-100 lbs. per acre per application

     

    Regulatory & Compliance

    Certifications & Compliance

    Technical Details & Test Data

    Growth Enhancement

    High ambient temperatures can result in heat and water stress. These stressors are known to impede robust plant growth and fruiting. When a barrier film of Acti-Min Sunblock kaolin product is applied at recommended rates and frequencies, canopy temperature can be reduced and therefore crop stress. Increased plant vigor and improved yields may occur on treated fruit and nut trees, and other fruit and vegetable crops2,3. Many pome and stone fruit varieties can show improved fruit color, smoothness, and size with less russet, sunburn, and cracking.

    For Sun Burn and Heat Reduction

    The first application must thoroughly cover all fruit surfaces before conditions leading to sunburn occur. To achieve optimal coverage, it is necessary to start the spray program with either two dilute applications 3% solids by wt.) 5-7 days apart, or one application with twice the concentration (6% solids by wt.). For an acre with nominal 12' trees, a 6%
    solids spray would contain 100 Ibs. in 200 gallons of water. Apply concentrate spray at least every 7-14 days to ensure complete coverage of all leaf and fruit surfaces is maintained. Under windy conditions or rain, particle film may be rubbed or washed offmaking reapplication necessary.

    General Application Guidelines

    COVERAGE
    Use sufficient spray volume to obtain thorough coverage. For optimal performance, applications must coat all portions of plant that are to be protected, including both sides of the leaves. Applications can be made with any commercial air blast or high-pressure sprayer that provides enough air turbulence to coat both sides of the leaves, bark, and fruit. Tractor speed must not exceed 3 mph.

    FOLIAGE DRYNESS
    Apply only to dry foliage. Do not apply to wet foliage or poor coverage and adhesion will result.


    DROPLET SIZE
    Use nozzles that produce a fine spray when Acti-Min Sunblock crop protectant is used under normal temperature and humidity conditions. Under very hot and dry conditions, nozzles that produce a coarser spray and larger volumes may be necessary to prevent evaporation and to prevent drying. If this product evaporates or dries before it contacts the foliage poor film formation will result.

    SPRAY METHODS
    Air blast or high-pressure sprayers are required. Observe specific crop label instructions for directions regarding spray volume. Calibrate spray equipment per equipment manufacturer recommendations to deliver the required volume. The flow rate of this product is like water. Use strainers in the spray system and
    behind each nozzle per normal practice.


    REAPPLICATION
    When the dry foliage has lost its white appearance, reapplication is necessary. Heavy rainfall, new growth, and wind erosion will affect film quality. Reapply to re-establish coverage after heavy rain as soon as the foliage is dry.


    OVERHEAD IRRIGATION CONSIDERATIONS:
    Overhead irrigation will wash off the film and reduced efficacy will result. Overhead irrigation is not preferred, but, if used, should be used just prior to the next application of Acti-Min Sunblock kaolin product to prevent premature wash-off. Do not apply this product through sprinkler irrigation systems or by air

    Mix Instrucions

    FOR AGITATING SPRAYER TANKS


    For Concentrate Application (6% solids by weight) – Use 50 Ibs. of this product per 100 gallons of water.


    For Dilute Application (3% solids by weight) –Use 50 Ibs. of this product per 200 gallons of water.
    The following mixing sequence must be followed:
    1. Slowly add this product powder into the water in a recirculating sprayer tank. Add directly into the mix basket. If there is no mix basket, add very slowly to the recirculating water.
    2. Mix thoroughly.
    3. Add Spreader/Sticker if desired.
    4. Add tank mix pesticides, if any.
    5. Continue agitation until all the material is sprayed from the tank.
    6. At the end of the application, spray until empty and flush system and nozzles with fresh water. Properly dispose of rinse water.


    FOR NON-AGITATING SPRAYER TANKS (Such as Backpack Sprayers)


    The following mixing sequence must be followed:
    1. Use Acti-Min™ Sunblock powder at a rate of ½ lb. of powder per one gallon of water. (6% solids by weight)
    2. While stirring or swirling, slowly add Acti-Min Sunblock powder into ¼ to
    ½ of the water that will be used in the batch.
    3. Add Spreader/Sticker if desired.
    4. Mix thoroughly by shaking the closed container vigorously for 30 secs. 5. Add tank mix pesticides, if any.
    6. Add remainder of the batch water and shake for an additional 30 secs. 7. Shake the sprayer occasionally during application.
    8. At the end of the application, spray until empty and flush system and nozzles with fresh water. Properly dispose of rinse water.

    Acti-Min® Sunblock - Mix Instrucions

    Additional Information

    PLANT RESPONSE PRECAUTIONS
    Lack of adhesion or film formation on foliage or fruit may indicate spray incompatibility with the plant surface or previously applied materials. Ensure that plant leaf and fruit surfaces are dry before applying or poor adhesion or film formation will occur.
    Do not spray where a visible white film is undesirable or cannot be washed off.


    COMPATIBILITY
    Acti-Min Sunblock product is not generally affected by most insecticides, miticides, and fungicides. However, the user should test tank mixes before use. When mixing with other products, make up a small batch and observe slurry and film characteristics. Curdling, precipitation, lack of film formation, or changes in viscosity are signs of incompatibility. Always add tank mix pesticides after the powder and spreader/sticker have been added. Do not use with anti-foaming agents.

    Packing and Processing

    Washing is required unless the white kaolin film weathers off before harvest Most film residue will wash off with packing line brushing and forced water sprays. An approved washing detergent may be used in the packing line and/or wash tank. A pre-harvest washing trial is recommended to determine if a washing detergent is necessary. Waxing further improves fruit appearance