Page 58 - Grapevine JanFeb 2021_REV
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Around The Vineyard
why these synthetic replicas of the sexual repro- the females and immature vine mealybugs, also
duction pheromones of vine mealybug are so for- known as ‘crawlers,’ are wingless and unable to
midable. fly. It is these non-flying life stages that spread the
“By hanging VMB-XL dispensers or spraying infestation into and through a vineyard in several
VMB-F microcapsules, vineyard managers confuse ways. The most direct way is at planting through
flying male vine mealybugs so that they can’t find infested nursery stock,” she said. “Another com-
females to mate. This reduces the pest’s overall mon transmission method is through farm equip-
populations and is completely safe for all beneficial ment. Do not allow contaminated equipment,
species and humans,” Goldman said. “CheckMate vines, grapes or winery waste near un-infested
prevents damage and extends the lifespan of insec- vineyards. Mealybug crawlers can even hitch a ride
ticides by mitigating resistance development. We on field crews that have been working in an infest-
also offer specialized lures to help Pest Control ed vineyard or with prunings and plant residue
Advisors monitor for vine mealybug and grape from the previous season. They can also be dis-
mealybug.” persed by birds and other wildlife, surprising even
the most meticulous growers.”
Goldman told The Grapevine Magazine that
CheckMate VMB-F is more commonly used by Once insect pests & diseases get out of control,
conventional growers. It works with any IPM tools, both can create an uphill battle for vineyards.
from beneficial parasites and predators to conven- Experts say that for new vineyards, prevention
tional insecticides. That flexibility and compatibility starts with clean and disease-resistant plant mate-
make it a popular choice for vineyards defending rials. For mature vineyards, early detection and
against vine mealybug. An infestation, she said, can strategies developed by specialists who know best
happen to even the most careful growers. how to control and eradicate the threats can make
“Although the adult male vine mealybug can fly, the difference.
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