Formulation and environmental manipulation to enhance the insecticidal activity of entomopathogenic nematodes for control of insect pests of orchards

Extended shelf life and rapid dispersion of entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) infective juveniles (IJs) in spray suspensions were the principal objectives of earlier EPN formulation development. Subsequently, formulation of EPNs for enhanced insecticidal control in greenhouses and field has been investigated by numerous researchers for control of several insect pests. However, there are few publications on the formulation of EPNs for improved control of orchard pests. Novel formulations that that slow desiccation of IJs are being developed that will facilitate increased use of EPNs as microbial control agents. For example, a sprayable gel substantially improved epn efficacy for control of the lesser peachtree borer, Synanthedon pictipes, on peach limbs. Control of overwintering cocooned codling moth, Cydia pomonella, larvae would drastically reduced damage caused by the moth following emergence in the spring. A wood flour foam formulation and formulated EPN infected-hosts, caused superior control of overwintering larvae on tree trunks and in mulch, respectively. These new formulations (e.g., sprayable gels or foams) may have widespread benefits for epn application, particularly for targeting pests that attack the tree aboveground. EPNs and other microbial control agents are ready made components of integrated management of orchard pest insects on a sustainable basis.