Volume 58 Number 1 Article 7
Year 2004 Month 1
Title: A Kaolin-based Particle Film Suppresses Certain Insect and Fungal Pests while Reducing Heat Stress in Apples
Authors: A.L. Thomas, M.E. Muller, B.R. Dodson, M.R. Ellersieck and M. Kaps
Abstract:
The application of non-toxic particle films to suppress arthropod pests and diseases in crop plants is a
promising recent development in horticulture.
Experiments were conducted in two orchards in southwest
Missouri to evaluate a specific particle film's effectiveness against such pests in apples [Malus sylvestris
(L.) Mill. var. domestica (Borkh) Manst.]. A newly-developed kaolin-based product, Surround WP
(Engelhard Corp., Iselin, NJ), was applied at five different rates and frequencies throughout two growing
seasons.
The product was successful at suppressing plum curculio (Conotrachelus nenuphar Herbst)
damage to fruits, red-banded leafroller (Argyrotaenia velutinana Walker) damage to leaves (but not
consistently to fruits), flyspeck (Zygophiala jamaicensis Mason) and sooty blotch [Gloeodes pomigena
(Schwein.) Colby] diseases on fruits, and a Phoma leaf spot (Phoma sp.), but was not consistently
effective against cedar apple rust (Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae Schwein). Overall grade of
apple was improved with particle film applications.
Generally, higher rates and more frequent applications
resulted in better pest suppression.
The particle film coating also reduced plant stress during extreme
temperature conditions.
Results suggest that kaolin-based particle films have potential applications in
integrated management of apple pests, while providing some physiological benefits to the plants.
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