Dazomet (Basamid)
Basamid is a broad-spectrum soil fumigant used for the preplant control of nematodes, weeds, and soilborne diseases. Unlike other fumigants, Basamid is a granular product that must be mechanically incorporated into the soil. A soil fumigation rig is not required. Toxic gases are not released until after the product begins to absorb moisture from the soil. These gases do not produce a high vapor pressure, and therefore Basamid is not considered a true soil fumigant by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. A category 21 (soil fumigation) certification is not required for the application of Basamid. Basamid's efficacy is affected by the same soil conditions and features that affect other fumigants, including: moisture, temperature, texture, organic matter content, site preparation, and effective surface sealing after application. The product is phytotoxic and will harm trees if the gases have not completely dissipated from the soil before planting.