Insecticides - VA-WV-MD Spray Bulletin for Commercial Tree Fruit Growers

ABAMECTIN (aBBA, AGRI-MEK, TEMPRANO) is an insecticide/miticide derived from a soil microorganism, registered on apple for spider mites, spotted tentiform leafminer, and white apple leafhopper, and on pear against pear psylla, spider mites, and pear rust mite. Because of resistance problems commonly associated with those pests, abamectin should be rotated with other materials, and must not be applied more than twice per season. The label rate is 2.5-5 fl oz/100 gals, or 10-20 fl oz/A. Do not apply more than 20 fl oz per acre per application, or 40 fl oz per acre per season. Do not apply in less than 40 gal of water per acre. See label constraints on spraying near bodies of water. Paraffinic spray oil should be added at the rate of 1 qt/100 gal, or at least 1 gal per acre. Although other surfactants may be used, control is not as effective as with oils. While abamectin poses no compatibility problems, be aware of compatibility problems involving oils. Proper timing is important since the material must be absorbed by young foliage; recommended timing is within 2 weeks after petal fall on apples and pears.

ACEQUINOCYL (KANEMITE) is a naphthoquinone derivative acaricide registered for the control of European red mite and twospotted spider mite on apple and pear. Formulated as a 15SC (suspension concentrate), it is used at the rate of 31 fl oz per acre. Kanemite acts as a mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor (METI), blocking cellular respiration, but at a different site than other compounds. Activity occurs primarily by contact and secondarily by ingestion. Kanemite should be applied at mite threshold, and rotated with acaricides having different modes of action to minimize development of resistance.  It has been classified by EPA as a reduced risk compound, and has a 14 day PHI and 12 hour REI.

ACETAMIPRID (ASSAIL) is a member of the neonicotinoid class of chemicals with registration on pone and stone fruits.  It has translaminar systemic activity and controls pests by contact and ingestion.  Like other members of this chemical class, Assail is very effective against aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, and pear psylla, but is unique in also providing control of internal worms.  Available as a 35SG, it may be applied during the prebloom, bloom and postbloom periods at rates of 2.5 to 8.0 oz per acre, depending upon insect species.  Direct spray contact is toxic to bees, but residues are not.  Use is limited to a maximum of 4 applications and 32 oz of product per acre per season, with a minimum finished spray volume of 80 gallons per acre.  Assail has a 12 hour restricted-entry interval and may be applied up to 7 days before harvest.

AZADIRACHTIN (AZA-DIRECT) is a biological insecticide derived from nuts of the neem tree that is registered for a variety of pests on all pome and stone fruits.  Formulated as 0.0987 lb. of azadirachtin per gallon, Aza-Direct controls target pests on contact or by ingestion and acts by way of repellence, antifeedance, and interference with the molting process.  It is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) as an option for organic production.  The application rate ranges from 11.5 to 42 oz per acre, with 32 oz per acre (recommended) providing good to excellent control of rosy apple aphids, spotted tentiform leafminer, codling moth and oriental fruit moth.  Aza-Direct may be applied up to and including the day of harvest, with orchard re-entry permitted after 4 hours.

AZINPHOSMETHYL (GUTHION, AZINPHOSMETHYL-50) is formulated as a 50WP. In recent years Guthion has been by far the most widely used insecticide on apple in our area. Because of heavy use, however, resistance has developed in several secondary pests, notably white apple leafhopper, spotted tentiform leafminer, some leafrollers, and internal worms (CM and OFM).  Higher rates (maximum in some cases) are needed to maintain internal worm control in some locations.  The maximum amount of Guthion 50W that may be applied per crop season is 6 lbs on apple and pear, and 3 lb on cherry. Allow at least 7 days between applications on apples.

BACILLUS THURINGIENSIS is a bacterial insecticide formulated as a wettable powder and as an aqueous concentrate. It may be recommended in combination with either an adjuvant or another insecticide, so read the label very carefully. Generally speaking, B.t. (various trade names) is most effective against newly hatched caterpillars. Death is slow because the material must be ingested and the biological action completed within the insectÕs gut before death occurs; however, larvae soon cease feeding after ingesting B.t. Rates are given on the label for each specific formulation. B.t. is particularly useful if an insecticide is required to control gypsy moth during bloom.

BETA-CYFLUTHRIN (BAYTHROID XL) is a pyrethroid insecticide registered for the control of many fruit pests on apple, pear and all stone fruits. Formulated as a 1EC, application rates range from 1.4 to 2.8 fl oz per acre, depending upon insect species. Baythroid XL is limited to a seasonal maximum of 2.8 fl oz per acre on apple and pear, and 5.6 fl oz per acre on stone fruits. The minimum water volume for ground application is 100 gal per acre on apple and pear, and 50 gal per acre on stone fruits. As with other pyrethroids, postbloom use is likely to cause outbreaks of mites and secondary pests. Restrictions: REI = 12-hour; PHI = 7-day.

BIFENAZATE (ACRAMITE) is a 50WS acaricide registered for mite control on apple, pear, peach, nectarine, cherry, plum and prune.  It is effective against all stages of two-spotted spider mites and motile stages of European red mites.  While Acramite has activity against peach silver mite, it will not control apple and pear rust mites.  It should be applied at 12-16 oz per acre, only once per year, in a minimum of 50 gallons of water per acre.  The product provides quick knockdown through contact activity and long residual control.  Acramite is not systemic, therefore thorough coverage of both upper and lower leaf surfaces is necessary for effective control.  It would fit best for summer use at a low mite threshold in a rotation program with other acaricides.  Acramite has a 12 hour restricted-entry interval on tree fruits and can be used up to 7 days before harvest on pome fruit; 3 days on stone fruit.

BIFENTHRIN (BIFENTURE) is a 2EC pyrethroid insecticide registered for the control of numerous insect and mite species on pear. Rate of application is 2.6 to 12.8 fl oz (0.04 to 0.2 lb ai) per acre. The seasonal maximum is 0.5 lb ai per acre, with no more than 0.45 lb ai per acre applied after petal fall. Restrictions include an REI of 12 hours and PHI of 14 days.

BUPROFEZIN (CENTAUR) is an insect growth regulator registered for use on peaches and pome fruit.  Formulated as a 70WP, Centaur is labeled for the control of scales, leafhoppers, and pear psylla.  The active ingredient acts as a chitin biosynthesis inhibitor, and therefore has primary activity on the nymphal stages of these pests.  Although adult insects are not controlled, there is some reduction in egg laying and viability of eggs.  Insect uptake of Centaur is primarily through contact, with some vaporization for a period of time after application.  Centaur is to be applied at 34.5 oz/acre, with a maximum per year of one application on apple, and two applications on pear and peach.  The product has a 12 hour REI and 14 day PHI.

CARBARYL (SEVIN) is formulated as a 50W and 80S powder and used at the rate of from 1.0 to 2.0 lb per 100 gal of spray. Carbaryl is highly effective in codling moth and Japanese beetle control. It is somewhat effective on several other insects, including aphids and leafrollers. Carbaryl reduces fruit set on some varieties of apple when applied within 30 days of bloom, and it is suggested as a chemical fruit thinner on Red Delicious, Winesap, and Rome. Mite populations have a tendency to increase following carbaryl sprays because of suppression of predatory species. Because of its low mammalian toxicity, carbaryl is one of the few insecticides that can be used to within 3 days of harvest. New formulations that are less toxic to honey bees, such as Sevin-XLR Plus, are available. Such formulations have increased residual activity.

CHLORANTRANILIPROLE (ALTACOR) is registered on pome and stone fruits for the control of Lepidopteran insects and European apple sawfly, with suppression of apple maggot, cherry fruit fly, plum curculio and white apple leafhopper. Altacor is a member of the anthranilic diamide class of insecticides with a novel mode of action on insect ryanodine receptors. It has some contact activity, but is most effective through ingestion of treated plant surfaces. Insects exposed to Altacor will rapidly stop feeding, become paralyzed, and die within 1-3 days. Altacor has provided outstanding control of internal worms (codling moth, oriental fruit moth) and leafrollers in numerous tests conducted in the mid-Atlantic region. Available as a 35WG, rate of application is 2.5-4.5 oz per acre on pome fruits and 3-4.5 oz per acre on stone fruits in a minimum of 100 gal of water per acre. Do not use an adjuvant in combination with Altacor on cherries or within 60 days of harvest on pome fruits. For resistance management, make no more than 3 successive applications per generation of insect species, and treat the following generation with a product having a different mode of action. Restrictions include a seasonal maximum of 4 applications and 9 oz per acre, REI of 4 hours, and PHI of 10 days on stone fruits and 14 days on pome fruits.

CHLORPYRIFOS (LORSBAN, NUFOS, YUMA) is available in several formulations registered for use as a foliar application in the dormant or delayed dormant period against aphids and scale in apples, scale in stone fruits and pear psylla in pears. One formulation (Lorsban 75WG) is also available for use as a foliar spray at petal-fall in apple, targeting a broad range of pests. New restrictions prohibit more than one application of chlorpyrifos per season in apples, regardless of the formulation used or the pest(s) targeted for control. The liquid Lorsban formulations (Advanced 3.8E and 4E) contain slightly different amounts of chlorpyrifos but have identical rate ranges. Lorsban Advanced contains less volatile organic compounds (VOC) and therefore is a low-odor formulation. All formulations are registered for use as a trunk drench application against peachtree and lesser peachtree borers in peaches, nectarines and cherries. A single trunk drench spray per season is permitted in peaches and nectarines and up to three drench applications in cherry. A handgun application of 100 gallons should treat 75 to 100 large trees or 100 to 125 small trees. Prevent spray contact with fruit and do not use within 14 days of harvest on bearing trees. Good results for both species have been obtained when the material was applied immediately after harvest. Lorsban 4E, Lorsban 75WG and Yuma 4E are registered for use as a post-bloom trunk drench spray against dogwood borer in apples, while the Lorsban Advanced 3.8E and Nufos 4E formulations are not currently labeled for this pest. The recommended rate for control of dogwood borer is 1.5 qt (4E) or 2 lb (75WG) per 100 gal water. Use restrictions include a single application only to the lower 4 ft of the trunk from a distance of not more than 4 ft, using low-volume or shielded spray equipment. Spray contact with fruit and foliage is prohibited and application must not be made within 28 days of harvest. A single application during prebloom or early postbloom will effectively control dogwood borer.

CLOFENTEZINE (APOLLO) (42% suspension concentrate) is registered on apple, pear, peach, nectarine and cherry, for European red mite and twospotted spider mite. Apollo is effective against eggs and very young mites. If active mites are present, include another miticide for control. Use at 4-8 fl oz per acre or 1-2 fl oz per 100 gal. Apply only one application per season up to 45 days before harvest on apple and at first sign of mite activity on other crops.

CLOTHIANIDIN (CLUTCH) is the newest member of the neonicotinoid chemical class registered for use on apple and pear.  Formulated as a 50WDG, Clutch is labeled at 2-6 oz/acre for the control of  aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, plum curculio, apple maggot, codling moth, oriental fruit moth, and pear psylla, and suppression of leafrollers.  Application is limited to a season maximum of 6.4 oz of product (0.2 lb AI) per acre.  Clutch has a 12 hour REI and 7 day PHI.

codling moth granulovirus (cyd-x) is an insecticidal virus for control of codling moth larvae and is registered on apple, pear, plum and walnut. This group of viruses has been found only in invertebrates and they do not infect vertebrates or plants. Cyd-X must be ingested to be effective. The virus spreads from gut cells to other tissues, killing larvae in 3 to 7 days, depending on dosage and temperature. Dead larvae eventually disintegrate and release billions of new infectious units, which can infect other larvae. Timing Cyd-X sprays to target young larvae at the beginning of each generation is important. Two applications per generation, at a rate of 3-6 fl oz per acre, are recommended. Cyd-X should be refrigerated or frozen during storage and continuous exposure to temperatures above 90°F can inactivate the product. This material is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) and approved for organic production.

CYFLUTHRIN (TOMBSTONE) is a pyrethroid registered for the control of many fruit pests on apple, pear and all stone fruits. Formulated as a 1EC, application rates range from 1.4 to 2.8 fl oz per acre, depending upon insect species. Tombstone is limited to a season maximum of 2.8 fl oz per acre on apple and pear, and 5.6 fl oz per acre on stone fruits. The minimum water volume for ground application is 100 gal per acre on apple and pear, and 50 gal per acre on stone fruits. As with other pyrethroids, postbloom use is likely to cause outbreaks of mites and secondary pests. Restrictions: REI = 12-hour; PHI = 7-day.

DIAZINON is formulated as a 50W powder and 4E liquid, and used at the rate of 1.0 lb and 1.0 pt per 100 gal of spray. This organophosphate insecticide is registered for control of many tree fruit insects. The 4E formulation is only registered on stone fruits. It is moderately toxic to mammals. It has demonstrated efficacy in control of rosy apple aphid, San Jose scale and woolly apple aphid.

DIFLUBENZURON (DIMILIN) is a chitin biosynthesis inhibitor, disrupting the molting process.  It is registered on pear for control of pear psylla and suppression of codling moth.  Control of pear psylla is greatest prebloom, and should be timed to oviposition periods; thereafter suppression only may be achieved.  It may be applied post bloom, but avoid combinations with oil in such applications.  It is also effective against codling moth.  It is formulated as a 2L and a 25W product, and recommended at 40-48 fl oz and 2.5-3 lb per acre, respectively.  Delayed dormant applications should include a horticultural mineral oil at the rate of 4-6 gallons per acre.  After delayed dormant, through popcorn stage, add oil at 0.25%, not to exceed 1 gallon per acre.  Do not make more than four applications per season, or exceed 64 fl oz per acre per year, or apply closer than 14 days to harvest.  REI = 12 hours. 

ENDOSULFAN (THIONEX) is formulated as a 50WP and 3EC, and is used at the rate of 1.5 lb and 1 qt per 100 gal for control of peachtree borer and lesser peachtree borer. It is also effective in the control of apple aphids and leafhoppers when used at the rate of 1.0 lb or 21 fl oz per 100 gal. Endosulfan should not be applied more than twice during the fruiting season to peach and nectarine. It should not be applied more than three times to apple during the fruiting period. Endosulfan is highly poisonous and should be used with caution.

ESFENVALERATE (ADJOURN, ASANA XL) is a pyrethroid insecticide registered for use on apple, peach, and pear. Esfenvalerate is formulated as a 0.66 EC; it provides broad-spectrum insect control at low rates of application. Esfenvalerate is also highly toxic to beneficial insects. Postbloom application usually results in a severe mite outbreak. Esfenvalerate is only recommended for the prebloom control of pear psylla on pear. On apple, it is recommended for prebloom insect control and is occasionally used for late season (after mid-August) control of leafrollers and internal worms in blocks with low mite populations.

ETOXAZOLE (ZEAL) is an acaricide/ovicide registered for mite control on apple, pear, cherry and all non-bearing tree fruits. It is an insect growth regulator that inhibits the molting process through disruption of the cell membrane. It acts as an ovicide, stops the development of immature mite stages, and sterilizes adults. Since Zeal does not kill adult mites and its activity depends upon development of immature stages, it may take a week or more to cause a reduction in the mite population. Therefore, Zeal is best used in an early season preventative approach or targeted against a low mite threshold. Formulated as a 72WDG, use is limited to one application per season at 2-3 oz/acre. Zeal has a 12 hour restricted-entry interval (REI) and a 14 day preharvest interval (PHI) on apple and pear; 7 day PHI on cherry.

FENBUTATIN OXIDE (VENDEX) is an acaricide recommended in the 50W formulation; a 4L is also available. It is effective against European red mite and twospotted spider mite, though relatively safe for predatory mites. Rates are 4-8 oz./100 gal., or 1-2 lb. per acre concentrate (1-3 lb. in apple). On apple and pear, do not apply more than 4 sprays/season; on peach, plum, prune and cherry, not more than two sprays.

FENPROPATHRIN (DANITOL) is a pyrethroid insecticide-miticide registered for use on apple and pear as a 2.4 EC. It provides broad-spectrum insect control and has demonstrated activity against mites. Because it is also highly toxic to beneficial insects, postbloom use can still result in mite outbreaks, depending upon the mite population level and number of applications. Danitol is currently only recommended for prebloom use on apple and pear, and for possible use late season (after mid-August) on apple for control of leafrollers and internal worms.

FENPYROXIMATE (PORTAL) is a contact acaricide/insecticide registered on apple and pear for the control of various mite species, white apple leafhopper, and pear psylla. Like Nexter, its mode of action is to block cellular respiration by acting as a mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor (METI). It also acts to inhibit molting of immature stages. Mite feeding and oviposition stop soon after application, with death occurring in 4-7 days. Formulated as a 5EC, Portal is used at the rate of 2 pints per acre. It should not be applied more than once per season, and should be rotated with products having a different mode of action where additional control is needed. FujiMite has a restricted entry interval (REI) of 12 hours and a preharvest interval (PHI) of 14 days.

FLONICAMID (BELEAF) is a pyridinecarboxamide that is registered on all pome and stone fruits for the control of aphids and tarnished plant bug. It functions as a potassium channel blocker and acts through contact and ingestion to stop feeding, resulting in starvation. There is also some translaminar and systemic movement of the product into treated plant surfaces. Formulated as a 50SG, the application rate is 2.0 to 2.8 oz per acre in a minimum of 50 gallons of water per acre. A maximum of 3 applications and 8.4 oz per acre per season is permitted. Restrictions: REI = 12-hour; PHI = 14-day on stone fruits and 21-day on pome fruits.

FLUBENDIAMIDE (BELT) insecticide is registered for use on pome and stone fruits for the control of Lepidopteran larvae (codling moth, lesser appleworm, green fruitworm, and leafrollers). Belt belongs to the phthalic acid diamide chemical class, and is primarily active through larval ingestion by causing a disruption of calcium balance in insect muscle cells, resulting in rapid paralysis. Formulated as a 4SC (suspension concentrate), application rate ranges from 3-5 fl oz per acre on pome fruits (100 GPA minimum spray volume), and 3-4 fl oz per acre on stone fruits (50 GPA minimum spray volume). Because Belt is chemically related to Altacor, these two products should not be rotated against successive generations of the same Lepidopteran pest in order to avoid the development of resistance. Restrictions include a seasonal maximum of 3 applications and 15 fl oz per acre on pome fruits and 12 fl oz per acre on stone fruits; REI of 12 hours; and PHI of 14 days on pome fruits and 7 days on stone fruits.

FORMETANATE HYDROCHLORIDE (CARZOL 92SP) is registered for use on apple, pear, peach, and nectarine. It cannot be applied after petal fall on apple or pear, or after shuck fall on peach and nectarine. Pests controlled and label rates per 100 gal of water are: Apple tentiform leafminer (4-5 oz), white apple leafhopper (2-4 oz). Apple and pear European red mite and twospotted spider mite (4-8 oz). Pear pear rust mite (4 oz). Peach tarnished plant bug and stink bug (4 oz). Peach and nectarine European red mite and twospotted spider mite (4 oz). Total seasonal applications are limited to 1.25 lb/A. Carzol is not stable in alkaline solution and should be mixed just prior to use. Do not mix more than can be sprayed in four hours. Measure pH after all materials have been added to spray tank. Adjust with appropriate adjuvant if necessary.

GAMMA-CYHALOTHRIN  (PROAXIS) is a pyrethroid insecticide registered for the control of many insect species on all pome and stone fruits. Formulated as a 0.5 lb per gallon encapsulated suspension (CS), it is applied at the rate of 2.56-5.12 fl oz per acre (0.01-0.02 lb ai/acre). Proaxis is limited to a season maximum of 1.6 pints per acre (0.1 lb ai/acre) and a postbloom maximum of 1.28 pints per acre (0.08 lb ai/acre). As with other pyrethroids, postbloom use of this product is likely to result in a mite outbreak. Proaxis has a restricted entry interval (REI) of 24 hours, and a preharvest interval (PHI) of 21 days on pome fruits and 14 days on stone fruits. See label regarding season maximum if Warrior or Lambda-Cy is also included in spray program.

HEXYTHIAZOX (ONAGER, SAVEY) is an acaricide registered on apple, pear, peach, nectarine, cherry and apricot for the control of European red mite and twospotted spider mite. It has activity against eggs and very young mites, and should not be used in the same season as clofentezine (Apollo). Include another miticide if older mite stages are present. Hexythiazox is available as Savey 50 DFor Onager 1EC for use as a single application up to 28 days before harvest.

IMIDACLOPRID (PASADA, PROVADO) is a systemic insecticide registered on apple and pear that is formulated as a 1.6 Flowable. It is very effective in postbloom use for aphids, leafminers and leafhoppers, and is also registered for use against San Jose scale crawlers. For leafminers, begin applications at the first appearance of sap-feeding miners to control young larvae; late instar larvae are not controlled. Applications should be at least 10 days apart but not before petal fall. Imidacloprid may not be used in Lee County, Virginia, in order to protect endangered species (Lee County cave isopod).  A Section 18 registration has been approved for the use of Provado in Virginia to control green peach aphid as a vector of plum pox virus.

INDOXACARB (AVAUNT) is the first member of the oxadiazine class of chemicals registered for insect control on pome and stone fruits. It is primarily effective against various lepidoptera, but also has activity against selected insects of other types. Avaunt acts primarily through ingestion by inhibiting sodium ion entry into nerve cells, resulting in paralysis and death of the pest species. Avaunt results in rapid inhibition of insect feeding, pest knockdown within 1 to 2 days, and provides crop protection for 7 to 14 days. This product has low mammalian toxicity (caution label) and is intermediate between OP's and pyrethroids in toxicity to beneficial insects and mites. Avaunt is limited to a maximum of 4 applications per season and total of 24 oz per acre up to 14 days before harvest.

KAOLIN (SURROUND WP) is a specialized mineral that has been shaped, sized and formulated for use as an insecticide on pome and stone fruits. Applications of 50 lbs per 100-200 gals per acre form a white "particle film" barrier on treated surfaces. Thorough coverage must be maintained by multiple applications, usually every 7-10 days, for effective control. Possible modes of action may include repellency, deterrence to egg-laying, irritation, physical barrier and non-recognition of host. Surround has demonstrated good to excellent activity against pear psylla, leafhoppers, plum curculio, apple maggot and Japanese beetle. It is certified for organic fruit production and is exempt from tolerance requirements. Surround WP has a 4 hr REI and may be applied up to harvest. It should not be applied beyond fourth cover on fruit for the fresh market that will not be washed before sale, in order to minimize the particle film residue. Season-long programs of Sur-round WP have improved color and reduced cracking of Stayman, and have reduced sunburn damage to apple in hot climates. The specific size and shape of the mineral particles permits photosynthetically active radiation to reach the leaf surface so that photosynthesis in not reduced by the particle film barrier.

LAMBDA-CYHALOTHRIN (WARRIOR, LAMBDA-CY, SILENCER) is a pyrethroid registered for control of numerous insect species on all pome and stone fruits. It is available in two encapsulated suspension formulations (Warrior 1CS, Warrior II 2CS) and in two emulsifiable concentrate formulations (1EC, Lambda-Cy, Silencer). The application rate for Warrior II is 1.28 – 2.56 fl oz per acre (0.02-0.04 lb ai/acre), with a seasonal maximum of 12.8 fl oz per acre (0.2 lb ai/acre) and a postbloom maximum of 10.24 fl oz (0.16 lb ai/acre). For Warrior, Lambda-Cy and Silencer, apply at 2.56-5.12 fl oz per acre (0.02-0.04 lb ai/acre), with a seasonal maximum of 25.6 fl oz per acre (0.2 lb ai/acre) and a postbloom maximum of 20.48 fl oz per acre (0.16 lb ai/acre). Like other pyrethroids, postbloom use of this product is likely to result in a mite outbreak.  Do not apply within 21 days of harvest on pome fruits and 14 days of harvest on stone fruits.  This pyrethroid is a restricted use pesticide with a warning label, and it has a 24-hour restricted-entry interval (REI). See label regarding seasonal maximum if Proaxis is also included in spray program.

MATING DISRUPTION is registered for control of codling moth, oriental fruit moth and peach borers. For codling moth and oriental fruit moth, hand-placed pheromone dispensers are available in several formulations (Isomate rope, Checkmate membrane, Disrupt laminate) for managing each species separately and a sprayable formulation is available for oriental fruit moth (Checkmate OFM-F). Two formulations are registered for simultaneous control of both species (Isomate CM/OFM TT, Checkmate CM-OFM Duel). Rope dispensers are available for lesser peachtree borer (Isomate LPTB) and peachtree borer (Isomate PTB). Since formulations for codling moth and oriental fruit moth differ in the length of control provided, it is important to read the label and to consult a fruit entomologist or technical representative or distributor for selection and best use of available options.  Monitoring the target species with pheromone traps and scouting for damage at appropriate timings will verify the effectiveness of mating disruption and is strongly recommended, especially when first using this tactic.  Mating disruption works best with low-moderate populations; therefore the approach should be used only in previously managed or newly planted blocks. Follow label guide-lines. Specific comments follow: Codling moth - Apply once per season, about bloom-petal fall. Uncontrolled sources of immigrations (abandoned blocks, etc.) should be at least 60 yards away. Apply conventional sprays through first cover. Sprays of edge rows are recommended. Treated blocks should be at least 5-10 acres; avoid irregularly-shaped blocks. Dispensers are applied at 400/A (Isomate) or 200/A Disrupt).  Monitor for oriental fruit moth and lesser appleworm, especially if near stone fruit plantings. Oriental fruit moth - Apply hand-placed dispensers once per season, starting before first male flight of the second generation. Dispensers are applied at 100-150/A (Isomate) or 108/A Disrupt).  Follow the label for timing applications of the OFM sprayable product. Treated blocks should not be smaller than 2 acres in order to minimize the effect of immigrating gravid females. Economic benefit may also be derived in non-bearing blocks where OFM is the main insect pest. Lesser peachtree borer and Peachtree borer - Apply Isomater LPTB at 100/A at petal fall for LPTB and Isomate P for PTB at 100/A before first major flight. Isomate-LPTB dispensers will also control PTB when used at higher densities (200-250/A for PTB). Mating disruption has been very effective against peach borers, and replaces the special borer spray.

METHIDATHION (SUPRACIDE) is available as a 25WP and 2EC. It is an organophosphate insecticide that is utilized in the dormant or delayed-dormant stage to control aphids and scale. It may be applied with or without oil and is recommended at the 1-2 lbs or 1-2 pts per 100 gal rate. The 2 lb or 2 pt rate is best for scale control. The rate may be reduced to 1 lb or 1 pt per 100 gal for aphid control.

METHOMYL (LANNATE) insecticide is registered for use on apple for control of aphid, budmoth, codling moth, leafroller, and leafhopper, and on peach for oriental fruit moth control.  A SLN 24(c) label is also available for use on nectarines in Virginia and West Virginia.  Two formulations are available, Lannate LV (2.4 lb/gal) and Lannate 90SP. Methomyl has demonstrated ovicidal activity against variegated leafroller and tufted apple budmoth.

METHOXYFENOZIDE (INTREPID) is an insect growth regulator that is the second molt accelerating compound (MAC) to receive registration. It has selective activity against lepidopterous pests, controlling the larval stage by initiating a premature molt that results in death from starvation and dehydration. Because this activity is expressed primarily through larval ingestion of treated surfaces, thorough coverage is necessary for effective control. Due to its low toxicity to beneficial insects, Intrepid has a good fit in IPM programs. It is registered on pome and stone fruits for the control of codling moth, oriental fruit moth, lesser appleworm, spotted tentiform leafminer and various leafroller species.

NOVALURON (RIMON) is registered on apple for the control of codling moth, oriental fruit moth, and various leafroller species.  Rimon is an insect growth regulator that interferes with the insect’s ability to form chitin, thus disrupting the molting process.  Therefore, it is effective only against the immature stages of insects, and will not kill adults.  Route of insect entry is primarily through ingestion, with some contact activity.   Toxicity to eggs has also been demonstrated for some insect species.  For most effective control, applications of Rimon should be initiated at the beginning of egg-laying for codling moth and oriental fruit moth, and at the beginning of egg hatch for leafroller species. Rimon is available as a 0.83EC and applied at the rate of 20-40 oz/acre, with a maximum of 4 applications (150 oz/acre) per season.  It has a 12 hour REI and 14 day PHI.

OILS (superior-type) result from a high degree of refining. The minimum specifications for three weights of superior oil are:
                                                                       VISCOSITY
PROPERTY*                                            60 sec.   70 sec.   100 sec.
Viscosity 1 at 100 o F, sec. (max.)                    63          75          90-120
Gravity, 2 API (minches)                              35               34          31
Unsulfonated residue, 3 (minches)              94               92           90
Pour Point, 4 0 F (max.)                               20              20           30
Distillation, 5 10 mm Hg. o F 50% point    412 + 8     435 + 8
10 to 90% range o F (max.)                         65               80
* - Determined according to the following ASTM Methods: 1 D-445-65 and D-2161-66; 2 D-287-67; 3 D-483-63; 4 D-97-66;  5 D-1160-61

Some spray oils, when mixed with other materials and with water from certain water supplies, result in an uneven distribu-tion of these materials in the spray tank. The oil appears to capture some materials and form large globules that separate from the water in the absence of vigorous agitation. Some mixtures cannot be made satisfactorily even with intense agitation. It is suggested that the compatibility of the oil with the other materials be tested by adding small amounts to water in a glass jar and stirring. If the mixture can be kept from separating by stirring, it should be all right for use. Some summer oils (Ultra Fine oil) have been shown to be effective against European red mites when three applications are made in the early post-bloom period.

OXAMYL (VYDATE L) is registered on apple for the control of aphids, mites, white apple leafhopper and tentiform leafminer at the rate of 1 to 2 pts per 100 gal of dilute spray. Vydate L will thin fruit if applied within 30 days after full bloom and has a SLN 24 (c) registration for such use in Virginia and West Virginia.

PERMETHRIN (AMBUSH, PERM-UP, POUNCE) is a pyrethroid insecticide registered for use on apple, pear, peach, nectarine, and cherry. Applications are limited to dormant to prebloom on pear, and through petal fall on apple. It is recommended for the prebloom control of spotted tentiform leafminer (apple), plant bugs (apple, peach, nectarine, pear), and pear psylla (pear). Use of this product increases the risk of mite outbreaks, especially when applied after bloom. Permethrin is available as both 3.2EC (Perm-UP, Pounce) and 25WP (Ambush, Perm-UP, Pounce) formulations. Restrictions: REI = 12-hour; PHI = 3-day on cherry, 14-day on peach and nectarine.

PHOSMET (IMIDAN) is a broad-spectrum organophosphate insecticide formulated as a 70W powder. It is registered for use on a number of fruit pests, including codling moth, plum curculio, redbanded leafroller, oriental fruit moth, apple maggot and others.

PROPARGITE (OMITE 30WS) is an acaricide that is available for non-bearing pome and stone fruits, and is used at the rate of 6 lb/A or 2 lb/100 gal of spray. It has performed well in mite control on apple. Omite is most effective during the warmer summer months, and its full effectiveness requires from 4 days to a week. It should not be used more than two times a season.

PYRIDABEN (NEXTER) is a contact acaricide/insecticide that has a unique mode of action as a mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor (METI), blocking cellular respiration. It therefore has efficacy against mite populations resistant to other acaricides. It may be used from petal fall until 25 days before harvest. No more than two applications 30 days apart may be made per season; however control is fairly long-term, often exceeding 40 days. Nexter is moderately toxic to predators. Selection pressure toward resistance may be high because of the great mortality caused by Nexter.Application rate is 4.4-5.2 oz per acre for ERM and 8.8-10.7 oz per acre for TSM.

PYRIPROXYFEN (ESTEEM) is an insect growth regulator that inhibits the development of eggs and immature stages and adult emergence of target insects. Although this product has no direct activity on adult insects, the hatching of eggs laid by treated adults is often suppressed. Because activity of this product depends on insect development, evidence of control will be slower than with typical contact insecticides. Available as a 35 WP, Esteem is registered on apple for the control of aphids, leafminers, San Jose scale and codling moth, and on stone fruits for San Jose scale. It is also registered on pear for the control of pear psylla, San Jose scale and codling moth. As a resis-tance management strategy, use is limited to two applications per season at a rate of 4-5 oz per acre.

RYNAXYPYR (ALTACOR 35WDG) has received a federal label for pome and stone fruits, and is awaiting state registrations.  It is effective against  lepidopteran pest, plum curculio, apple maggot and white apple leafhopper.  Use rate is 2.5-4.5 ounces/A.  PHI = 14 days, REI = 4 hours.  The common name is also given as chlorantraniliprole.

SPINETORAM (DELEGATE) Spinetoram is related to spinosad, and is derived from the fermentation, followed by the chemical modification of a naturally occurring soil organism. This product affects the insect nervous system through both contact and ingestion, with excellent translaminar activity. Targeted pests in this area include internal worms (codling moth, oriental fruit moth), leafrollers, and leafminers on apple; pear psylla on pear; and oriental fruit moth, leafrollers, thrips, and cherry fruit fly on stone fruits. Addition of an adjuvant may improve control of thrips, leafminers, and pear psylla. Delegate will only provide suppression of apple maggot and plum curculio. This product has demonstrated excellent control of internal worms and leafrollers in tests conducted on apple in the mid-Atlantic region. Application rate is 4.5 to 7 oz per acre, with a seasonal maximum of four applications and 28 oz per acre. To reduce the potential for resistance development, Delegate should not be applied to consecutive insect generations, but rotated with other chemistries for the management of internal worms and leafrollers. Restrictions: REI = 4-hour; PHI = 14-day on peach and apricot; 7-day on apple, pear, cherry, plum, and prune; and 1 day on nectarine.

SPINOSAD (SPINTOR 2 SC) belongs to a new class of insecticides, the Naturalytes, derived from a soil microorganism, and has been designated by EPA as a reduced risk pesticide because of low toxicity and environmental benefits. It is registered on apple at 5-10 fl oz/A and on stone fruits at 4-8 fl oz/A, and provides good control of tufted apple bud moth, variegated leafroller, obliquebanded leafroller, spotted tentiform leafminer and western flower thrips. SpinTor is a nerve poison that provides control by contact and ingestion, with fairly short residual activity. Leafminer control is enhanced by the addition of a penetrating agent.  The mode of action is unique.

SPIRODICLOFEN (ENVIDOR) is an acaricide registered for use on all pome and stone fruits for the control of European red mite, twospotted spider mite, apple and pear rust mites, and peach silver mite.  The active ingredient acts as a lipid biosynthesis inhibitor, with contact activity against mite eggs, immature stages and adult females; adult males are not affected.  Due to its insect growth regulator properties, Envidor should be applied on a preventive basis or at a low mite threshold, with performance evaluation conducted 4-10 days following application.  Formulated as a 2SC, the application rate is 16-18 oz per acre, with a maximum of one application per season.  Minimum application volume (ground application only) is 50 gal/acre on stone fruits and 100 gal/acre on pome fruits.  Envidor has a 12 hour REI and 7 day PHI on pome and stone fruits.

SPIROTETRAMAT (MOVENTO) is registered for the control of sucking insect pests on all pome and stone fruits. It is a systemic foliar insecticide that belongs to the tetramic acid chemical class (same class as Envidor®) and is classified as a lipid biosynthesis inhibitor. Movento is active by ingestion against the immature stages of aphids, scale, and pear psylla, and also has impact on exposed female adults by reducing fecundity and survival of offspring. Upon penetration of the leaf cuticle, Movento exhibits “2-way systemicity” by moving to all areas of the plant, including new shoot, leaf and root tissues. Formulated as a 2SC, rate of application is 6-9 fl oz per acre, with a seasonal maximum of 15.3 fl oz per acre on stone fruits and 25 fl oz per acre on pome fruits. Movento should not be applied prior to petal fall in order for sufficient leaf tissue to be present for uptake and translocation. In addition, Movento must be tank-mixed with a spray adjuvant/additive having spreading and penetrating properties to maximize leaf uptake and systemicity of the product within treated plants. However, the use of Induce® adjuvant in combination with Movento is prohibited on pome and stone fruits when fruits are present due to adverse plant compatibility. Restrictions include a 24-hour REI and a PHI of 7 days.

THIACLOPRID (CALYPSO) is a member of the neonicotinoid class of chemicals with registration on apple and pear.  It has broad-spectrum activity, similar to Assail, against sucking insects (aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, mirid bugs, and pear psylla) and internal worms.  Calypso is formulated as a 4F, with a rate of application of 2-4 fl oz per acre for sucking insects and 4-8 fl oz per acre for internal worms.  Use is limited to a maximum of 8 fl oz per acre in a single application and 16 fl oz per acre per year.  Calypso has a 12 hour restricted-entry interval (REI), and at least 30 days must elapse between the last application and harvest.

THIAMETHOXAM (ACTARA) is a systemic insecticide in the neonicotinoid class of chemicals that is registered for insect control on all pome and stone fruits. It provides control through contact and ingestion, and is especially effective against aphids, leafhoppers, leafminers, and pear psylla. Actara is available as a 25WG and may be used during both the prebloom and postbloom periods at rates of 2.0 to 5.5 oz per acre, depending upon insect species. Prebloom use is limited to one application on all tree fruits, and only one postbloom application is permitted on stone fruits. A season maximum of 8 oz per acre is permitted. Actara has a 12 hour restricted-entry interval (REI). The preharvest interval (PHI) is 14 days on stone fruits, 14 days on pome fruits for rates up to 2.75 oz per acre, and 35 days on pome fruits for higher rates.

ZETA-CYPERMETHRIN (MUSTANG MAX) is a 0.8EC pyrethroid insecticide registered for the control of numerous insect species on pome and stone fruits. Rate of application is 1.28 to 4.0 fl oz per acre, with a seasonal maximum of 24 fl oz per acre. As with other pyrethroids, this product is highly toxic to mite predators, and postbloom use is more likely to result in an increase in mite populations. Restrictions: REI = 12-hour; PHI = 14-day.