New biopesticide ProAxelin used for treating strawberries

A new biopesticide, to replace an old favorite used for treating strawberries, aims to help growers affected by pesticide bans.

"With the rapid loss of active ingredients in traditional pesticide products, options for pest and disease control are dwindling fast," explained a representative for the product's manufacturer Plant Solutions.

He said that ProAlexin Phyto-Elicitor improved crop nutrition and replaced Biomax Forte and Biomax GP, which had been used for several years by strawberry growers.

"The new spray is concentrated, used at low-dose rates, suitable for conventional and organic systems and considerably more cost-effective than the products it replaces," added the representative.

The product works by helping to activate the plants' natural protection and defence systems during the early growth stages. This reduces dependence on traditional agrichemicals.

"It improves plant health and vigour and leads to a higher percentage of Class 1 produce. It leaves no residues and can be used throughout the whole life of a crop."

ProAxelin was particularly suitable for use in integrated crop-management systems and where biological controls were being used, the representative said.

Plant Solutions is set to launch ProAlexin Phyto-Elicitor at Fruit Focus, which takes place on 22 July at East Malling Research, Kent.