Hello Denny,

Here’s the clearest picture based on the most recent, university‑sourced information.

Is Captan still approved for use on apples in Michigan?

Yes — Captan is still federally registered and remains recommended in university extension programs, including those covering apples. It has not been removed from the approved products list. The EPA is in the middle of a registration review, which is routine for older pesticides. More information at this link:

Apple Sprays for Gardeners - Apples

University extension sources (Cornell, Rutgers, NC State) all report the same thing: Captan is under review, and the EPA has proposed mitigation measures, but it has not been banned or removed from use. More information at these links:

Captan Amended Proposed Interim Registration Review Decision – CCE Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture Program

Captan under registration review by EPA – comments on proposed mitigation measures due July 31, 2024 — Plant & Pest Advisory

Why you may be having trouble finding Captan

Two things are likely contributing:

1. EPA’s proposed restrictions are causing supply disruptions

The EPA’s amended Proposed Interim Decision (PID) includes changes such as:

Reduced maximum application rates for apples

Additional PPE requirements

Restrictions on certain formulations (DF/WDG/WP) for aerial application

These proposals can cause manufacturers to pause production or distributors to reduce inventory until labels are updated.

2. Some consumer‑grade formulations are being limited

The EPA has proposed limiting the percentage of active ingredient in consumer products, which affects retail availability. More information is at this link:

Captan-EPA-Document.pdf

Commercial growers can still purchase agricultural formulations, but homeowners may find fewer options on shelves.

What Michigan growers should know

Michigan State University Extension (MSU) still lists Captan as a recommended fungicide for apples during early‑season disease management. The federal review does not remove it from use; it only proposes label changes.

If you’re following an MSU spray guide, their recommendations remain valid unless they issue an update.

Their latest update is at this link:

Updates to the 2026 Fruit Management Guide - Fruit & Nuts

If you can’t find Captan locally

This is likely due to:

Retailers are waiting for updated labels 

Distributors are reducing stock during the EPA review

Consumer‑grade product restrictions

Commercial suppliers may still have it, but availability varies.

I hope this helps!