CPM finds out why it’s not just during on-farm storage that insect pests can prove economically damaging for the UK arable industry. 

To ensure exports are protected during transport, traders have turned their attention to preventatively spraying grain, to ensure that no pests are present when the cargo arrives at its destination.

The application of insecticide happens during loading at the port, a service offered by Alpha Fumigation, which specialises in the fumigation and associated treatment of commodities and grain. Director, Peter Woolley said: “Over the past few years, we’ve found that traders increasingly want to take a preventative approach by spraying grain, to ensure exports are protected against insect pests.

“As more traders are choosing to protect with insecticides, we have developed specialist application equipment for spraying both export and import grain cargoes. This equipment enables us to simultaneously spray multiple loading belts or elevators, to ensure a thorough and even application.”

With the export season spanning from September until late spring, Alpha Fumigation then turns its attention to spraying grain stores ahead of harvest, again both preventatively and curatively.

A product used in post-harvest storage is talisma EC by Arysta LifeScience, a pyrethroid insecticide containing cypermethrin and synergist piperonyl butoxide. Talisma EC can be used to treat both grain and storage structures, with no withholding period post application.

Peter Woolley

Peter added: “We first used talisma EC in 2014 and have continued to do so since because the product has performed consistently whilst being economically competitive.

“One of the main benefits is the range of application rates. You can also spray the grain directly, or the storage facility. This flexibility, alongside it’s consistent performance, gives the product added value.”

Cypermethrin acts by ingestion and contact at very low dose, causing rapid knock-down, whereas Piperonyl butoxide has synergic action, inhibiting the enzyme which detoxifies cells after cypermethrin has been applied. Using the two active ingredients together enhances the effects of cypermethrin, whilst also helping to manage resistance.

Technical support for Arysta LifeScience UK & Ireland, Rob Adamson said: “The presence of insects, whether during storage or export, depreciates the value of the whole crop and can ultimately lead to rejection.

“Using a cypermethrin-based insecticide as part of a resistance management programme, alongside products with other modes of action, is the best approach for ensuring maximum efficacy.

“Companies such as alpha fumigation are experts within their field and it is reassuring to hear that talisma EC is an integral part of their pest management provision.”

For more information, visit www.arystalifescience.co.uk and www.alphafumigation.co.uk