Targeted, next generation chemistry gathering advocates

Catching up with growers, getting feedback on local conditions and new product efficacy is all part of the job for ADAMA NZ Commercial Manager Doug Speers, who accompanied Fruitfed Supplies Senior Horticultural Technical Representative Kath Lee-Jones when talking to Ohakune growers about their experience with Nimitz. The novel nematicide was developed by ADAMA and released two seasons ago. 

Kath said it was an opportune time to get an update. “Nimitz is being used more broadly and, though people are still taking it slowly but, from what I can gauge, it’s all positive.”

Doug says one of the area’s larger growers, who used Nimitz on early harvest carrots, said this year’s crop was much cleaner with an increase in marketable yield over previous seasons.

“We’ve been working with early adopters, who want to move away from the harsher chemistry without compromising quality,” says Doug. “Another, very experienced grower told us he’ll keep using Nimitz. This backs our belief that Nimitz will pay back your investment.”

Prior to release, the product has been extensively trialled1 and performed well in potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and kūmara.

“Tested globally from 2007, and in New Zealand since 2013, Nimitz specifically targets root knot nematodes, root lesion nematodes, and potato cyst nematodes. These pests can result in vegetable crops being stunted or forked and can impact yield.”

Nimitz isn’t a fumigant and it’s highly specific, which is a significant difference to old-school organophosphates. It is also IPM compatible.

“Nimitz controls an entire lifecycle of the target pests, including nematode eggs so a single application of Nimitz offers season-long treatment even if there has been heavy rainfall after planting, in contrast to other products which can be washed away.”

Contact your local ADAMA Commercial Manager for more information on Nimitz.

Trial references
Manawatu 2016 trial conducted by Peracto NZ Ltd.
Pukekohe 2018 trial conducted by Peracto NZ Ltd
Hawkes Bay 2023 trial conducted by Ranui Field Research Ltd