What are contact fungicides primarily used for?

Contact fungicides are primarily used to remain on the surface of plants after application. This is because these fungicides work by creating a protective barrier on the plant surface, preventing fungal spores from germinating and infecting plant tissues. When applied, contact fungicides do not move within the plant tissues; rather, they provide a topical layer that intercepts pathogens before they can enter and proliferate.

The effectiveness of contact fungicides relies on their adherence to the plant surface and the necessity for complete coverage at the time of application. This application technique ensures that any potential fungal threats are mitigated before they can cause damage to the plant.

In contrast to options that involve penetration into the plant or improving soil quality, contact fungicides focus exclusively on surface protection. As a result, they are crucial in managing diseases on crops and ornamentals without interacting directly with the plant's internal systems.