Published on 21/07/2022
Axcela is manufactured via a unique wet-extrusion process in a dedicated state of the art plant at the Arxada manufacturing site in Switzerland.
Axcela combines the ad-vantages of the specific mode of action of Meta Metaldehyde with the latest formulation techniques. The result is a pellet with the highest levels of control of slugs and snails under a wide range of conditions.
That’s the message from Arxada NZ technical services and development manager Stephen McKennie.
“Axcela works for two reasons. The active substance Meta metaldehyde is effective in the control of all target species, and a wet extrusion formulation process makes it more palatable,” he explains.
Axcela contains 30 g/kg metaldehyde. Key product benefits include even spreading and longevity in the field.
Precision manufacturing means that every Axcela slug pellet is uniform in shape, size and density, furthermore they contain Meta throughout the entirety of the bait which means Axcela keeps working for longer, Stephen says.
The gelatinization process used in its manufacture allows the pellets to absorb water rapidly. This results in the baits becoming palatable much faster, while maintaining integrity.
Getting the best out of Axcela starts with knowing exactly what slug pressure is present Stephen says.
“Effective slug control during establishment needs good monitoring. The key to success is to stay on top of the situation, be aware of what’s going on, understand how weather patterns could influence population dynamics, and always use pellets responsibly in an integrated pest control programme.”
Cultural controls include preparing a fine seedbed with a firm tilth, because slugs do not burrow through the ground but rather follow cracks or openings in the soil.
“It’s also good practice to avoid sowing slug susceptible crops after leafy crops such as oilseed rape (canola) that can carry high slug populations, especially in wet seasons.”
Farmers should also remove straw and other harvest residue (or incorporate them deeply); plough or cultivate when the weather and soil are dry and control volunteer plants to remove food sources.
As a rule, mineral, light, and other drier soils generally carry lower slug populations than heavier soils; irrigation favours slugs and cultivation brings eggs to the surface and dries them out.
Careful application timing will ensure farmers and growers maximise Axcela cover periods and efficacy, Stephen adds.
“Best results are achieved by applying Axcela during mild damp weather when slugs are most active, but do not apply when rain is expected.”
Follow up applications may be required, for example in a wet season, or when slug pressure is particularly high.
“For optimum baiting points and maximum performance, application equipment needs to be calibrated carefully.”
Growers and contractors should set their equipment to achieve 60 baiting points per square metre. Growers should always follow the label to maximise protection and minimise environmental impact, Stephen says.
For more information visit arxada.co.nz/specialty/axcela