Using Biological Controls with MET 52 and Botanigard

Met 52G is a granular bioinsecticide containing the spores and mycelial tissues of the fungus Metarhizium anisopliae var. anisopliae F52. It is an approved insecticide for black vine weevil and other soil borne insects in ornamental plant production. As this product does not contain any chemical insecticide it is unlikely for insects to develop resistance. Although we cannot expect 100% control on it’s own, MET 52 is highly effective as part of an IPM Program. The fungus multiplies on the soil organic matter and when an insect contacts the spores they germinate and begin to grow on the cuticle of the insect. Once the cuticle is penetrated MET 52 continues to reproduce inside the insect causing death.

Working in conjunction with MET 52 is another myco-insecticide called Botanigard. The spores of Beauveria bassiana strain GHS work by direct contact with the insect pests whiteflies, thrips and aphids. Also compatible with IPM programs and beneficial insects. Another tool to prevent resistance to chemicals.

The third part to the insect control is the use of nematodes to aid in the control of soil borne insect pests. At times pests lay their eggs in or near the crown area of fleshy plants that may not be in contact by MET 52 in the soil. This is an example when nematodes should be used as a drench to target those pests.

Incorporate MET 52 into the potting media so that any insects entering the pots through drain holes will be infected by the spores. Supplement this with an addition of nematodes to control insects other than weevils. Start your nematode applications early in the growth cycle to control the youngest pest stages possible. MET 52 does not damage nematodes.

Apply nematodes when the pot temperatures are at least 12°C and below 28°C and maintain a moist media so the nematodes can move throughout the media in the water. The species of nematode you choose will control certain pests better than others. Steinernema feltiae are effective against the larval stage of fungus gnats and the adult or pupal stages of western flower thrips, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora target black vine weevil and other beetle grubs, Steinernema carpocapsae are useful against shorefly larvae as well as weevil.

Monitor for pests that may have reached the adult stages by using yellow sticky cards. If you see adults then it is time to use Botanigard to target those pests that are now in the plant canopy. As it is a contact spray, thorough coverage is key. Apply the WP version as a foliar spray to target the thrips, whiteflies or aphids. Use the EC version for soil drenches. A weekly application program can prevent insect population explosions and provide a level of control equal to or better than conventional chemical programs. Botanigard is especially useful for chemical resistant insects such as the Q-biotyoe whitefly.

Botanigard is the only option to control thrips without damaging the beneficials. Botanigard works synergistically with predatory mites as it targets the older adults and larger thrips instars while the predatory mites take care of the the first instar. Same is true with whitefly parasites. Botanigard can be sprayed over top of the parasitic wasps as it is generally harmless. Botanigard may reduce predatory bug populations so do not spray after the introduction of Orius spp or Delphastus spp.

With careful planning and application schedules, pest populations can be effectively controlled with the combined use of MET 52, Botanigard and beneficial nematodes and predators. Contact TerraLink for ordering and more information.