Vykenda insecticide shows thrips, mite control in trials
Vykenda insecticide shows thrips and mite control in Florida ornamental trials. Read more about how the chemistry works and review research results.
Growers in Homestead, Florida, often face significant pest pressure due to the region’s hot and humid climate, which favors insect and mite populations. One recent challenge has been Thrips parvispinus, an invasive pest that attacks more than 40 plant species across 19 plant families and damages crops including mandevilla and gardenia.
According to trial observations, a single application of Vykenda at 5 fluid ounces per 100 gallons reduced populations of pepper thrips and two-spotted spider mites to zero within one week in cat palm plantings. Scouting reports indicated treated plants remained free of the pests for more than 12 weeks.
The active ingredient in Vykenda is isocycloseram, also known as plinazolin. The chemistry belongs to IRAC Group 30 and represents a new mode of action for ornamental pest management.
The product is a non-systemic insecticide and miticide labeled for indoor and outdoor ornamentals as well as vegetables, fruits and nut trees grown for resale. It controls pests including thrips, mites, leafminers, flea beetles and worms.
Researchers say the chemistry could help greenhouse and nursery growers strengthen integrated pest management programs and support resistance management strategies as pest pressure continues to increase.
