A new triple mode-of-action bioinsecticide from Vestaron Corp. called Spear-P offers an effective biological control solution for the Colorado potato beetle.
Spear-P and all Spear bioinsecticide products offer the consistency and effectiveness of synthetic chemistries combined with the safety of biologicals. Spear-P uses a combination of Spear and Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). The two modes of action inherent in Spear products plus Bt give Spear-P three distinct ways to kill the target pests, providing a significant tool for the management of insect resistance. The synergistic action of the combo product gives enhanced performance.
Vestaron is also expecting commercial availability for three more products: Spear-T, Spear-O and Spear-C in 2017. Spear-T controls thrips, mites and whiteflies in greenhouse vegetables and Spear-O in greenhouse ornamentals. Spear-C protects crops from lepidopteran pests, also utilizing a Bt formulation.
“We are excited to offer the power and safety of Spear-P to potato growers,” says Vestaron CEO John Sorenson. “All our Spear pest control products are toxic to target insects but non-toxic to humans and the environment. With no known resistance, the Spear line will benefit grower operations throughout the country.”
The Spear product line is designed to be non-toxic for fish, birds, humans and other mammals, honey bees and other beneficial insects. Field trials of Spear products demonstrate results equivalent or superior to conventional control chemicals.
The products’ active ingredient utilizes two new modes of action to control insects. These modes of action will help delay the emergence of insect resistance while enhancing performance. They also have a four-hour re-entry interval and zero-day pre-harvest interval.