PFR-97 Mixing Instructions
To prepare PFR-97 for application, mix the product in clean water at a rate of 14 to 28 ounces per 100 gallons. Agitate the solution for 20-30 minutes before using to ensure proper dispersion. For premixing, use 5 gallons of water per pound of product, agitating continuously.
Active Ingredient and Mode of Action
PFR-97’s primary active ingredient is Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97, a naturally occurring entomopathogenic fungus. This biological insecticide works through contact, where the fungal spores attach to the insect or mite’s cuticle. Once attached, these spores germinate and penetrate the pest’s body. The fungus then grows inside the host, consuming its tissues and causing death. After the pest dies, the fungus can emerge from the cadaver to release more spores, which can then infect other insects, provided environmental conditions are favorable. This cycle of infection and spore release allows for continued control. PFR-97 is a contact insecticide; the fungus must come into direct contact with the target pest to initiate the infection process. This mode of action makes PFR-97 effective against a range of pests and also allows for ongoing protection as the fungus propagates. The fungal spores are not harmful to beneficial insects, making PFR-97 a selective control option.
Target Pests
PFR-97 is effective against a variety of common agricultural and horticultural pests. These include several species of whiteflies, such as Bemisia and Trialeurodes spp., which are known for their sap-sucking activity and vectoring of plant diseases. Aphids, another group of sap-sucking insects, are also susceptible to PFR-97, as are thrips, which cause damage by feeding on plant tissues. Spider mites, notorious for their ability to rapidly reproduce and cause significant plant damage, are another key target pest. Additionally, PFR-97 has shown effectiveness against leafminers, which feed within plant leaves, creating characteristic tunnels. This broad spectrum of activity makes PFR-97 a valuable tool for integrated pest management programs. The ability to control multiple pests with a single product reduces the need for multiple applications. The entomopathogenic nature of PFR-97 allows it to target these pests specifically, minimizing the impact on beneficial insects.
Standard Application Rate for Soil
For soil applications, the standard rate for PFR-97 is 1 to 2 pounds per acre. It is crucial to apply PFR-97 to soil that is already moist or has been pre-irrigated to ensure the product is effective. This moisture helps the fungal spores to activate and spread throughout the soil profile, increasing their contact with target pests. When applying to mushroom houses, refer to the manufacturer’s label for specific instructions. The product can be mixed with water before application or applied dry, depending on the application method. For dry application, broadcast and incorporate 1 to 2 pounds of PFR-97 20 WDG per 1,000 square feet of bed surface. To improve distribution, consider mixing the product with 25 pounds of gypsum per 1,000 square feet before application. This rate ensures adequate coverage and sufficient fungal spores to control soil-borne pests effectively. When targeting root feeding, the application can be done through watering can, hose, or overhead root zone.
Mixing Ratio for Spray Application
When preparing PFR-97 for spray applications, it is essential to adhere to the recommended mixing ratios to ensure effective pest control. The standard mixing ratio for spray application is 14 to 28 ounces of PFR-97 product per 100 gallons of clean water. This range allows for flexibility based on the severity of the infestation and the specific crop being treated. It is crucial to use clean water to avoid any contaminants that might interfere with the fungal spores. Before adding the product to the tank, ensure that it’s partially filled with the required water volume. Start agitation of the tank when it is half-full to ensure the product disperses evenly. The mixture should be agitated for 20 to 30 minutes before application. This ensures a well-dispersed suspension, maximizing the efficacy of the spray. Proper mixing will help the fungal spores to be evenly distributed during application, enhancing contact with pests. The product can be mixed with most insecticides for which mixing is permitted by the label and in accordance with the most restrictive label limitations.
Premixing Instructions
To ensure optimal performance of PFR-97, premixing is a recommended step, particularly when dealing with larger volumes of spray solution. The premixing process aids in achieving complete suspension and hydration of the product before it is added to the main spray tank. For effective premixing, use 5 gallons of clean water for every pound of PFR-97. This creates a concentrated solution that can then be easily incorporated into the larger volume of water. Add the required amount of PFR-97 to the 5 gallons of water and begin continuous agitation. It is crucial to maintain agitation throughout the premixing process, which should last for a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes. This duration ensures that the product is fully suspended and hydrated, allowing the fungal spores to distribute evenly. Proper premixing prevents clumping and ensures that the final spray solution is consistent and effective. This step is especially important when using PFR-97 in high-volume applications, as it enhances the overall efficacy of the treatment. Once premixed, this solution can then be added to the main spray tank, ensuring even distribution.
Agitation Requirements
Maintaining adequate agitation is crucial throughout the mixing and application process of PFR-97 to ensure a consistent and effective spray solution. Agitation prevents the fungal spores from settling at the bottom of the tank and ensures they are evenly distributed, which is vital for uniform application. Begin agitation as soon as water is added to the spray tank, and continue it throughout the entire mixing process. This includes the premixing stage, if applicable, where continuous agitation for 20-30 minutes is necessary to fully suspend and hydrate the product. Once the premixed solution is added to the main tank, or if you are mixing directly in the spray tank, continue agitation for another 20-30 minutes before application. During the application itself, it’s essential to keep the spray tank’s agitation system running to ensure the fungal spores remain uniformly distributed in the solution. This continuous mixing prevents inconsistent application and ensures that the target pests are exposed to the appropriate concentration of the active ingredient. Regular checks on the agitation system are advisable to confirm that it is functioning correctly. Inadequate agitation can lead to uneven distribution of the product and reduced efficacy. Always follow the label instructions regarding specific agitation guidelines.
Tank Mixing Compatibility
PFR-97 exhibits compatibility with a range of insecticides, allowing for integrated pest management strategies. However, it is essential to adhere strictly to label instructions regarding tank mixing. PFR-97 can be mixed with most insecticides, provided that such mixing is permitted by the labels of all products involved. Always follow the most restrictive label limitations and precautions when combining PFR-97 with other pesticides. It is of utmost importance to avoid mixing PFR-97 with any fungicides, except copper-based products, as this can negatively impact the viability of the beneficial fungus and reduce its effectiveness. Additionally, do not apply a stand-alone fungicide, other than copper, within five days before or after an application of PFR-97. When tank mixing, it is crucial not to exceed any label dosage rates for any of the products being used in the mixture. Always conduct a small-scale jar test to confirm the physical compatibility of the tank mix before applying it to a larger area. This can help identify potential issues such as clumping or settling. Compatibility testing is highly recommended when combining PFR-97 with unfamiliar products.
Fungicide Restrictions
The use of fungicides in conjunction with PFR-97 requires careful consideration due to potential negative impacts on the beneficial fungus. A crucial restriction to observe is to avoid tank mixing PFR-97 with any fungicides, with the sole exception of copper-based formulations. The concurrent application of most fungicides can compromise the efficacy of PFR-97 by hindering the fungal spores’ ability to germinate and infect target pests. Furthermore, a strict waiting period is required when applying stand-alone fungicides. Do not apply any fungicide, except for copper, within a five-day window before or after the application of PFR-97. This waiting period is vital to ensure that the beneficial fungal spores from PFR-97 are not negatively affected by any fungicidal residue. Copper-based fungicides are considered the only exception to this rule, as they are less harmful to the specific fungus found in PFR-97. Adherence to these fungicide restrictions is paramount to maximizing the effectiveness of PFR-97 in pest control. Always prioritize the label instructions to ensure compatibility and avoid any unintended consequences when applying any other pesticides.
Application Timing and Frequency
Optimal application timing and frequency are crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of PFR-97. Consistent monitoring of pest pressure is essential to determine the appropriate timing for initial applications. For best results, PFR-97 should be applied at least once per week, and this should be done for two to three consecutive weeks. This regular application schedule ensures that the fungal spores remain active and continue to infect pests. It’s also beneficial to apply PFR-97 when pest populations are emerging and most vulnerable. Regular applications help in establishing a consistent presence of the beneficial fungus in the target area. This strategy ensures that new generations of pests are exposed to the active ingredient and prevents population rebounds. The timing of application should also coincide with favorable environmental conditions, such as moderate humidity, which aids in the fungal spores’ germination. Keep in mind to check the label for specific recommendations that may be relevant to your particular situation. Consistent and timely applications are key to the successful control of pests using PFR-97.
Application Methods
PFR-97 can be applied using various methods, tailored to the specific needs of the target area and pests. For soil applications, PFR-97 can be applied to moist or pre-irrigated soil at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs per acre. The product can be mixed with water for spray application and then applied to the soil surface. This method is effective in targeting pests that reside in the soil. When aiming for root-feeding pests, the PFR-97 solution can be applied using a watering can, hose, or overhead irrigation system to reach the root zone effectively. Another method for soil application is soil injection, where the PFR-97 suspension is injected directly into the soil. For foliar applications, the product is typically mixed with water and sprayed directly onto the plant foliage. This ensures that the fungal spores come into direct contact with pests on the plant surfaces. It is important to choose the method that best ensures thorough coverage and maximizes contact between the fungus and the targeted pests, while also being suitable for the particular environment.
Storage Recommendations
Proper storage of PFR-97 is crucial to maintain its viability and effectiveness. Unopened containers of PFR-97 should be kept refrigerated at a temperature between 39-40°F (approximately 4-5°C) to preserve the live fungal spores. It is equally important to store the product in a dry environment, ensuring that moisture does not compromise its integrity. Always keep the container sealed tightly to prevent any moisture or air exposure, which can reduce the product’s shelf life and efficacy. Avoid exposing PFR-97 to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as these conditions can negatively impact the fungal spores. Once the container has been opened, it is still recommended to store the remaining product under refrigeration, with a tightly sealed lid. Following these storage guidelines will help maintain the product’s quality and ensure that the PFR-97 remains effective when it is time to use it, supporting optimal pest control results. It is best to use the product before the expiration date.
Additional Application Notes
Monitoring pest populations is crucial for the effective use of PFR-97. Apply PFR-97 at least once per week for two to three consecutive weeks to ensure optimal pest control. This product is a contact insecticide, meaning it needs to directly contact the target pests to be effective. Ensure thorough coverage of all plant surfaces where pests are present. For soil applications, make sure the soil is moist or pre-irrigated to enhance the product’s effectiveness. When using PFR-97 in a spray, aim for uniform coverage, including the undersides of leaves where pests tend to hide. Avoid applying PFR-97 during periods of high heat or when rain is expected shortly after application, as these conditions could reduce its efficacy. PFR-97 is compatible with most insecticides, but always follow the most restrictive label instructions when combining it with other products. Always read the product label before using PFR-97. Follow the instructions on the label for the best results.