Pitcher GR

Pitcher GR. The new biorational pesticide for the suppression of vine weevil eggs and early stage instar larvae. It is approved through an Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) in containerised ornamental plants, both protected and outdoors.

• Granular biorational insecticide • Part of an IPM solution to the problem of vine weevil • No resistance or re-entry periods • Low impact on non-target organisms

How does it work?

The active ingredient in Pitcher is garlic extract. Contained within the active ingredient are a unique range of Diallyl polysulfides (DAS). It is these compounds that provide the lethal biochemistry.

When a vine weevil egg or early stage instar encounters Diallyl polysulfide (DAS) molecules they penetrate through the skin

Once the DAS dissolve through the cuticle of the organism the lethal biochemistry starts

This leads to a cascade chain reaction within the organism which it can't regulate causing it to die due to overwhelming oxidative stress Rate of passage through the cuticle is dependent on sulphur chain length

The action of DAS is initiated following a reaction with intracellular low molecular weight thiols (LMT's) and protein thiols in the organism

The oxidative stress affects many cellular processes so it is very unlikely that resistance could ever evolve to the chemistry

How is it created?

When garlic is subject to mechanical stress, it releases two sulphur compounds which creates a range of DAS

Alliin

Allicin

Polysulphides

O "

S NH2

CO2H

S

DASI

S - S - S

DAS3

S - S - S - S - S

O "

S

S - S

DAS2

S - S - S- S

DAS4

S - S - S - S - S - S

Application

Pitcher is a granular biorational insecticide which is applied as a topdress over containerised ornamentals. Application can be via gloved hand (not a preferred method of application) or a suitable handheld application device.

When to apply

It is important to know when to apply Pitcher for maximum efficacy and therefore understanding the vine weevil life cycle is a key part of utilising this product. It is important to note that all stages of the lifecycle can be present throughout the year in protected crops. It is important that you check your plants in these situations for the pest.

Mean n. larvae recovered

6

5

4

3

2

1

Important information

• A minimum period of six weeks should be observed after initial application before any subsequent treatments of Pitcher or beneficial parasitic nematodes can be applied.

• Pitcher is not affected by temperature fluctuations unlike some other biological products.

0

Untreated 40kg/ha 80kg/ha 120kg/ha 160kg/ha 240kg/ha

Application rate

Statistical data shown is from trial work completed at Stockbridge Technology Centre

Rates of use

Maximum individual dose = 240kg per Ha per season This converts to 24g per m2 Based on trials data two applications at 120kg per Ha provides meaningful suppression of vine weevil eggs. This converts to 12g per m2 for a single application. Application timing is critical to affect eggs and young instars while they are near the surface of the container. Always water in following application in order to activate the granules.