Secover, a silicone-based foliar spray not classified as a plant protection product, demonstrated effective control of two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), positioning it as a potential complement to Kanemite (acequinocyl) during the early stages of the season.

As part of her BASIS project, Emma Smith seized the opportunity to evaluate five acaricides with physical modes of action. Testing these treatments on cherries cultivated under temporary protection, the trial was conducted at Lower Hope Farms in north Herefordshire, where Miss Smith was employed as a fruit technician at the time. She has since transitioned to Agrii as an agronomist, providing support to growers across the West Midlands.

Cultivating cherries under protection enhances both quality and yield. However, the sheltered environment beneath the canopy, while beneficial in safeguarding crops from frost and heavy rain, also fosters pest proliferation, particularly spider mites.

Miss Smith acknowledges that the trial's outcome was somewhat unexpected. Despite the anticipation of greater control from two of the tested products, which claimed spider mite control on their labels, the results differed.

Table 1 outlines the products evaluated in the trial.

Products evaluated for spider mite control in Emma Smith’s trial 

Reference: Emma Smith, BASIS, 2023. 

"The trial yielded highly promising results," remarks Miss Smith. "It showcased the potential of contact-only acaricides to positively contribute to control within a well-structured programme."

"Significantly, the population suppression achieved by Secover and, to a lesser extent, Flipper, proved adequate to afford early control, thereby postponing the necessity for Kanemite application, which is limited to once per crop," she elaborates.

Spider mite infestations at the time of application were notably severe, exceeding what would typically be classified as early stages. Miss Smith acknowledges this factor's potential influence on the trial's outcome.

"All products under trial recommend application at the first signs of infestation. Lower initial infestation levels might have yielded different results," she observes.

While product cost was a factor under consideration, efficacy remained the primary concern.

"Biologicals, such as predatory insects, offer effective control of two-spotted spider mite. However, their high cost and logistical challenges in deployment across large areas make Secover and Flipper particularly appealing. They present a comparatively economical option, act swiftly, and are easier to deploy.

Moreover, unlike certain conventional insecticides, Secover and Flipper boast favourable beneficial profiles, which hold significance for growers contemplating various stewardship actions under the SFI," highlights Miss Smith.

The trial assessed product performance over an 18-day period spanning from late July to early August, with evaluations conducted the day following application. Due to specified intervals between timings, products were not applied an equal number of times during the trial duration.