Description
Gemstar Biological Insecticide has been specifically designed for the control of Heliothis (Helicoverpa species, native budworm) in maize, sweetcorn and cotton, targeting feeding larvae ingesting treated areas.
How does Gemstar Biological Insecticide work?
It is a biological insecticide and hence its efficacy is dependent on environmental conditions, application and feeding behaviour of the pest. The product acts slowly and can take up to 8 days to kill larvae. Speed of kill and efficacy are dependent on climatic conditions. Warm conditions favor the performance of Gemstar LC as the larvae will be feeding actively and moving around. Daytime temperatures of 25°C to 35°C are ideal for Gemstar LC performance.
Targeting heliothis
Gemstar LC needs to be ingested to be effective. Good coverage of the target area, where the larvae are feeding, is essential. Gemstar LC will not control larvae that do not feed on the treated area, e.g. larvae sheltered in the corncob or lettuce heart. The level of control achieved depends on size, location and feeding behaviour of larvae at the time of application as well as coverage of the target area. Affected larvae may take several days to die, during which time feeding is reduced, but some feeding damage may occur.
Do not rely solely on Gemstar LC control for Helicoverpa where there is nil tolerance of feeding damage.
Gemstar Application
Gemstar LC has short residual activity and retreatment may be required at 2 – 3 day intervals depending on egg counts and crop growth rates. As Gemstar LC is readily degraded in the presence of ultra violet light, application in the late afternoon or early evening will provide the maximum opportunity for larvae to ingest the product before it is degraded.
Maize and Sweetcorn: Up to Tasselling: Gemstar Biological Insecticide may be applied by ground boom or aerial spray equipment. However, for best results, application by ground rig is recommended. Maize Silking: apply Gemstar LC only in ground-driven spray equipment, preferably through booms fitted with droppers. Application by aerial equipment is not recommended as coverage of the lower silks is less effective and control may be reduced.
Active constituent: 2 Thousand Million / mL Polyhedral Occlusion Bodies (OBS) of the Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus Of Helicoverpa zea
Pack size: 10L
Comparable products: N/A
Please get in touch with our Customer team for pricing information (03) 5659 2314
* Important: All Equivalent / similar products listed should be used as a guide only and may not be identical to the comparable Notman Pasture Seeds product. Formulations may differ including physical and chemical properties. Trademarks may apply to products listed. Recommendations for use, handling, storage and disposal of products may also change over time. Always read container label and leaflet before opening or using products.
