You're sure to see Larvanem being used when growers have problems with vine weevils. For more than 25 years, this parasitic nematode has been the top product used to combat vine weevil. What's the secret to its success? The secret lies in its special strain of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, which is the basis of Larvanem. The product is also completely natural and does not interfere with other beneficials.
For many growers, Larvanem is the most effective means of combating vine weevil. Of course, there are still chemical products against adult vine weevils, but without getting rid of the larvae, growers will continue to experience problems. This is why you need to have a biological approach.
Larvanem was developed 25 years ago by Koppert Biological Systems, the market leader in biological plant protection. The product did its job: it effectively targeted and combated vine weevil larvae. Larvanem is now used around the world.
More dynamic, more active, more effective
'Larvanem gives you operational safety, meaning you get the results you want,' explains consultant Rianne Lek, Koppert's specialist for the tree nursery industry in the Netherlands and abroad. 'Time and time again, research has proved that our strain is more effective than others. Our nematodes receive well-balanced nutrition during the production process, so they are larger than other nematodes. This means that they have more energy, can more actively target larvae, and are much more effective.'
The right strategy
Having the right strategy when using Larvanem is very important. Nematodes prefer warmer ground temperatures and a wet environment. Growers with outdoor crops therefore wait for a rain shower to get the nematodes working. But by that point it's often too late.
Rianne Lek says, 'Larvanem can be used at ground temperatures of 14 °C and above. If temperatures are lower, then you can use the other nematodes contained in our product Entonem. It is important to use Larvanem immediately, and to repeat the treatment, as soon as any vine weevil larvae are identified. Spray the area with water before and after treatment, and make sure the ground is moist for a little while. If needed, we will provide provide support and guidance to growers so that they can achieve maximum results with our product.'
Better results
According to product manager Rick van der Pas, Larvanem is the result of lots of research and development. 'That's how we kept on improving the growing and nutrition. Thanks to the strict checks we use in our production process, our nematodes are free of any diseases.'
Rick also highlights how effective Larvanem is. 'You get a much better result than with a chemical pesticide against adult vine weevils. And what's more, Larvanem is a wholly natural product. It's perfect for use in biological cultivation and doesn't harm other beneficials. The vine weevil is also unable to become resistant to Larvanem. You'll see how much you benefit.'
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Koppert Biological Systems
