“The months of May and June are of decisive importance to ensure the success of the biological control of the Persae mite in avocados (Oligonychus persae), which can cause the tree’s leaves to fall, exposing its branches, fruits, and increasing the risk of heatstroke burns. It’s in these months that producers should start releasing Neoseiulus californicus, a voracious mite that is able to locate the colonies of spider mites, cross the fabric that protects them and destroy them completely by feeding on them.”
“Koppert’s field experience confirms that the effectiveness of the biological control of the Persea mite depends to a large extent on already having its natural enemy present in the tree before the population levels of the pest soar. The Neoseiulus californicus has high efficacy in locating and destroying Persae mite nests that have egg layings and early nymphal stages.”
Spical UltiMite
“Koppert’s biological control protocol for the Persae mite specifies that the releases of Neoseiulus californicus are made using the environmental-resistant envelope that Koppert markets under the name Spical UltiMite. This exclusive envelope format progressively releases the predatory mite of the Persae mite for several weeks. “
“The Neoseiulus californicus predatory mite keeps its reproductive capacity intact when it’s inside the envelope, which is not affected by outside temperature differences, solar radiation, or rain. This makes it easier for new generations of the natural enemy to go out of it in search of food.”
“The second release phase of the natural enemy for the biological control of the Persae mite must be carried out in the months of September and October. They will be released as a reinforcement, to ensure that each tree has an adequate level of population of the pest’s natural enemy during autumn.”
Trianum
Koppert’s biological control strategy also includes applications of the Trianum bio fungicide to nourish and protect the avocado tree roots, which are especially sensitive to diseases transmitted by soil fungi.
Regarding the pollination of the avocado, Koppert once again confirmed the excellent results obtained with the Tripol bumblebee hives. These hives are specially designed for crops with very short flowering periods.
For more information:
Koppert
C/ Cobre 22
Pol. Industrial Ciudad del Transporte del Poniente
04745 La Mojonera, Almería (España)
Tel.: +34 950 55 44 64
www.koppert.es
