Helitec contains Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) a naturally occurring pathogen of the African bollworm.
HELITEC ®
Appearance
Helitec is a brown suspension concentrate.
Method of Action
When HELITEC is sprayed on a crop, ABW caterpillars ingest virus particles and become infected. The virus replicates within the insect body causing death of the caterpillar. The flaccid caterpillar will spontaneously rupture, releasing millions of virus particles into the environment ready for ingestion by other caterpillars.
Preparation
Shake well and mix in desired volume water to sufficiently cover the target area, a spreader/wetter may be added. HELITEC can be applied with conventional spray equipment either in rotation with other insecticides or as a stand-alone. It may be applied as a tank-mix with other pesticides. Good coverage and timing of spray are essential for optimal performance of the product. HELITEC is most effective against early instars of the African bollworm. For this reason, the crop should be carefully monitored (e.g. by pheromone traps) and treatment should be carried out when caterpillars are small. Early-stage-infected caterpillars will then die long before significant damage occurs.
Application rates
HELITEC is available as a suspension concentrate in 1-litre bottles, sufficient to spray at least 2 Ha.
Depending on the pest pressure HELITEC can be applied between 2-3 times every 5 –14 days apart. When the pest pressure is high apply 3 times 1 week apart. When the pressure is low apply once every 4 weeks.
Frequency of Application
Depending on the pest pressure HELITEC can be applied between 2-3 times every 5 –14 days apart. When the pest pressure is high apply 3 times 1 week apart. When the pressure is low apply once every 4 weeks.
Storage
HELITEC is available as a suspension concentrate in 1-litre bottles.
HELITEC has a shelf life of at least 6 months when kept out of direct sunlight, and more than 18 months when kept under refrigerated conditions.
Compatibility
Helitech can be tank-mixed with other pesticides and is compatible with biocontrol agents as it is highly host specific to the African bollworm.