Biological control specialist Biobest has launched a new system for delivering biological plant protection, replacing spraying. Dubbed Flying Doctors, the new concept sees bumblebees used to bring microbes to plants to control grey mould and other major diseases that cause huge yield losses annually to soft-fruit crops.
Grey mould is spread through airborne particles, and infects strawberries and raspberries during the flowering period, yet only becomes visible when the fruit ripens or during storage – when it is too late to be controlled.
The Flying Doctors system consists of a patented dispenser that is available as a fully integrated option to the new standard bumblebee hive. As the bumblebees leave their hive, they walk through a tray of specially formulated microbial fungicide or microbial insecticide preparation, which clings to their legs and body. They then deliver this product directly to each flower they visit. The bumblebees’ hairy bodies and unique buzz pollination make them especially effective as delivery vehicles.
The dispenser can also be used to enhance pollination by placing commercially available pollen in the tray, instead of the microbial fungicide or insecticide. This application can be used in a number of fruit and nut crops, including apples, almonds, kiwi, and cherries. This replaces labour-intensive spraying or dusting of the pollen.
The Flying Doctors system represents pollination combined with crop protection, and Biobest’s bees ensure that no flower is missed. This simple method saves labour, requires less volume of product and also helps reduce the risk of pesticide resistance and residue problems.
Biobest has already obtained good in commercial crops as well as laboratory conditions.
The system can be used in fruit or vegetable crops, and although the focus is currently on flower-associated diseases such as grey mould and pests such as flower thrips, Biobest said it is exploring the potential of this new technology to combat foliar diseases and pests too.
A spokesperson said: “Our planned launch of a new Western bumblebee species will allow growers in North America and Canada to take advantage of the scheme, with their own local flying doctors. It’s a world-wide solution that makes a world of difference.”
Biobest is presenting the Flying Doctors system at next month’s Fruit Logistica in Berlin.
