How BioWorks RootShield Granules Protect Roots
These granules deliver a living fungus, Trichoderma harzianum Rifai strain T-22, at 1.15% of the product. Each gram holds at least 1.0 x 10^7 colony forming units. Once blended into the root zone, T-22 grows along the roots as they extend. It occupies the root surface ahead of soilborne pathogens and competes with them for space and food. The label lists Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Cylindrocladium and Thielaviopsis as targets. BioWorks rates the protection at up to 12 weeks from a single application. BioWorks also notes stronger root hair growth and better tolerance of transplant stress. The product is OMRI listed and covered by EPA registration 68539-3, with a 4-hour REI. A 40 lb bag treats roughly 13 to 40 cubic yards of mix at label rates. That makes it a practical size for a greenhouse mixing its own media each season.
Mixing a Trichoderma Biofungicide Into Media
A trichoderma biofungicide works best when it reaches the roots before disease does. For greenhouse and nursery mixes, blend 1.0 to 3.0 lb per cubic yard and mix evenly. Use the higher rate where disease pressure has been a problem in past crops. Established containers can be top dressed instead, at 3 g for a 1 gal pot or 10.5 g for a 5 gal pot. Water the media in after application so the spores move into the root zone. Avoid tank mixing or drenching with fungicides that are hard on beneficial fungi soon after application. Wear protective eyewear, long sleeves, long pants and a particulate respirator while handling the dust. Keep the bag sealed and refrigerated, since warmth shortens the life of the spores. Short spells below 75 °F do not affect performance. Use treated mix promptly rather than storing it for months. Applied early and evenly, it gives young roots a strong start through the riskiest weeks.
Key Features
- T-22 Trichoderma: Living biological active that colonises roots.
- Up to 12 weeks: Long protection from a single application.
- Broad pathogen list: Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Cylindrocladium, Thielaviopsis.
- OMRI listed: Suited to organic production.
- 4-hour REI: Short re-entry after application.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | BioWorks |
| Part number | 2H03A08 |
| Package size | 40 lb bag |
| Active ingredient | Trichoderma harzianum Rifai strain T-22, 1.15% |
| Concentration | At least 1.0 x 10^7 CFU per gram |
| Target pathogens | Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Cylindrocladium, Thielaviopsis |
| Planting mix rate | 1.0 to 3.0 lb per cubic yard |
| Mix treated per package | About 13 to 40 cubic yards at 1.0 to 3.0 lb/yd3 |
| REI | 4 hours |
| Signal word | Caution |
| EPA registration | 68539-3 |
| OMRI | Listed |
| Storage | Refrigerated, in the original container |