MINERAL OIL FOR CONTROL OF ARMOURED SCALE INSECTS ON 'HORT16A' KIWIFRUIT

The use of mineral oil products as a control measure against armoured scale insects on organic 'Hort16A' kiwifruit was investigated in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. Applying 1% oil between 28 and 63 days after fruit set caused speckling damage to the fruit skin, whilst applications of 1% oil subsequent to 94 days after fruit set caused premature fruit drop. Increasing the concentration of oil applied from 1% to 2% increased the amount and severity of fruit damage. Oil was used safely during the pre-blossom period, between 1 and 21 days after fruit set, and between 70 and 94 days after fruit set. A spray programme based on applications of oil during these safe periods provided adequate control of armoured scale insects.