New Zealand Treecrops AssociationKnowledgeChlorpyrifosOnce the danger to the orchard's neighbourhood from Hi-cane® (Hydrogen Cyanamide) spraying is finished, spraying for frost protection occurs and is becoming an established practise. These sprayings may be repeated in areas subject to high risk of late frost damage, especially after high losses which occurred in the 2003 season. But beware that about this time the spray contractors switch over to spraying products like Lorsban® which are based on the organo-phosphate insecticide Chlorpyrifos. Major insect pests which can thrive in the kiwifruit orchard monoculture include leafroller, passion vine hopper, and scale. With an early leaf canopy established, Chlorpyrifos is applied before flowering and before the beekeeper's hives are moved into the orchards. It can be applied monthly until a fortnight before harvest. Chlorpyrifos of course damages most other insect life, beneficial or otherwise, including honeybees making them more susceptible to diseases and mites like Varroa. The conscientious spray applicator will spray only in the evenings or early morning to minimise damage to bees in particular. However, there is mounting concern world-wide that Chlorpyrifos rates alongside Hydrogen Cyanamide as a danger to the orchard neighbourhood. Beware of all orchard spraying at this time of year, especially if the weather is windy or the spray is drifting towards you or your livestock or pets. Toxicity and Human Precautions
http://www.treecrops.org.nz/knowl/addgen/chlorpyr.html |
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