New Emergency Authorisation for Lanzarta targets Hylobius pine weevil

The active ingredient in Lanzarta was inspired by a naturally occurring diamide insecticide from the Ryania plant. Importantly it only affects insect pests that physically feed on treated plants, which quickly stops further damage and leads to their death. Lanzarta has a positive toxicological and environmental profile for non-target organisms and biodiversity in woodland.

Sean added that research and industry best practice has shown the most effective timing to target adult Hylobius activity has been a one or two spray strategy in April to June and late summer to early autumn, depending on risk identified by insect activity and historic experience of damage.

Trials have shown that the effective prevention of Hylobius damage for the early years of forest establishment gives time for the natural background pest population to diminish, along with enabling trees to establish sufficiently to better withstand later damage.

Sitka spruce, the predominant conifer well suited to UK conditions, is especially susceptible to Hylobius feeding damage on young saplings. Around 35 million sitka trees have been planted each year across the UK, making it the country’s third largest single crop area - after wheat and barley. Sitka accounts for an estimated 50% of the entire £2bn UK forestry industry trade.

Forest advisors advocate integrated Hylobius cultural measures, such as extending fallow periods before replanting, manipulating ground cover and reducing food sources for larvae, can be beneficial when used in combination with Lanzarta to further reduce the impact of the pest.

“Further trials are ongoing with Forest Research, independent advisors, forest nurseries and reforestation projects across Europe, to refine Lanzarta application techniques and timing in practice,” Sean advised.

Under the terms of the EA, distributors must record where customers have purchased and used Lanzarta. All product supplied under the EA must be used during the authorised application period. Lanzarta will be available from nationwide distributors, Agrigem and Agrovista.