Ziram provides reliable protection against a broad spectrum of fungal pathogens including apple scab (Venturia inaequalis), peach leaf curl (Taphrina deformans), early blight (Alternaria solani), and anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.). Its multi-site contact action makes it particularly valuable in stone fruit orchards, nut crops, and vegetable production systems where these diseases cause significant economic losses.

As a dithiocarbamate fungicide (FRAC Group M3), Ziram works by inhibiting critical fungal enzymes through the formation of metal complexes. It disrupts multiple metabolic processes in the pathogen, including cellular respiration and energy production. This multi-site activity provides robust protective action but has no systemic or curative properties, requiring thorough coverage of all plant surfaces.

No, Ziram is a synthetic fungicide not permitted in certified organic production systems. Organic growers facing similar disease pressures might consider approved alternatives such as sulfur, copper-based products, or biological fungicides containing Bacillus subtilis or Streptomyces lydicus, though these typically require more frequent applications.

Applicators should wear full protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, respirator, and coveralls due to potential skin and respiratory irritation. The fungicide should not be applied when temperatures exceed 30°C to avoid phytotoxicity, particularly on sensitive varieties. Buffer zones should be maintained near water bodies to prevent contamination.

While primarily formulated for foliar application, Ziram does exhibit some soil activity against certain pathogens. However, its effectiveness as a soil fungicide is limited compared to dedicated soil treatments. Some growers use it as a pre-plant dip for nursery stock or as a low-rate soil drench for seedling protection, but other fungicides are generally preferred for comprehensive soil disease management.