Things to Consider When You Buy Mating Disruption

Have you ever wondered if all mating disruption solutions are the same? They might seem like a great fix for managing pests, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Mating disruption is a smart way to reduce pest populations in orchards and vineyards by using pheromones to delay pests from finding mates. This means fewer pests and less reliance on traditional chemicals.

But here’s the catch—not all mating disruption products work the same way. With so many options available, some cheaper than others, it’s essential to figure out which will work best for your farm. It’s not just about price; effectiveness and long-term benefits matter, too.

So, what should you look for when buying mating disruption? Let’s break it down.

1. Pest Pressure and Target Pest

Not all pheromone-based mating disruption solutions work for every pest.

Identify the primary pests affecting your orchard or vineyard—whether it’s codling moth, navel orangeworm, California red scale, vine mealybug, or others. Choose a mating disruption product designed specifically for those species. 

Navel orangeworm larvae can overwinter in mummy nuts left in almond orchards, posing potential pest problems in the following spring.

2. Pheromone Coverage Duration 

One of the most critical factors is the length of protection. While some solutions may offer lower costs, they might only provide partial coverage, potentially leaving your orchard vulnerable during critical periods. Look for solutions that provide season-long protection to ensure continuous pest management throughout the entire pest lifecycle.

💡Tip: Ask your provider how long coverage will last.

3. Cost vs. Value

Consider the overall return on investment (ROI):

• Reduced sprays: Some growers report fewer chemical applications when using mating disruption effectively.
• Long-term pest suppression: A well-implemented mating disruption program can lead to lower pest populations in subsequent seasons.
• Crop quality improvements: Reduced pest damage often results in higher marketable yields and better fruit quality.
• Labor savings: Some solutions take care of installation and maintenance for you, reducing the need for additional labor.

Reduced pest damage from an effective pest management program contributes to a better harvest in the fall.

4. Support and Expertise

Mating disruption is most effective when properly deployed and monitored. Consider a provider that offers:

• On-farm support for installation and troubleshooting.
• Access to agronomic experts for guidance on best practices.
• Access to regional pest insights to make informed decisions.
• Ongoing optimization recommendations to ensure long-term success.
  
  

Some mating disruption providers, like Semios, offer professional installation to ensure the pheromone dispensers are installed properly and to help reduce labor costs for the grower.

5. Added Value 

Who doesn’t love getting more out of a product? When evaluating mating disruption options, ask the product team whether their solution offers any added benefits beyond pest management. Some providers bundle extra features that can enhance your farm management without added costs.

For example, Semios’ mating disruption system includes free on-farm weather data. Each Semios dispenser doubles as a weather station, providing per-acre temperature and humidity data in addition to per-acre growing degree day data at no extra cost. This type of added value can improve decision-making and maximize your investment.

An example of on-farm weather data provided by Semios pheromone dispensers on the Semios app.

6. Proven Results

Look for solutions with:

• Documented success in your specific crop type: Check for case studies and reports demonstrating effectiveness in crops similar to yours, ensuring the product has been tested in real-world conditions.
• Third-party research validation: Independent studies and university-backed research add credibility to a product’s claims and can provide insights into its efficacy under different conditions.
• Positive grower testimonials: Reach out to other growers who have used the product successfully.
• Demonstrated ROI in similar operations: Consider solutions that have shown a clear return on investment, including reducing pest pressure, improving yield quality and increasing farm profitability.
  
  

7. Options Available for Mating Disruption

The most commonly available options are described below, each with its pros and cons.

Hand Applied

A dispenser that releases pheromone slowly over time. Usually, a material impregnated with pheromone, or a reservoir of pheromones is released through a membrane. Many different formats, including twist ties, clips etc.

Pros:

• Lower upfront costs.

Cons:

• Must be applied at a greater density, which results in higher labor and overall costs.
• Pheromone release rate is related to temperature, so most release occurs during the day rather than night when pests are most active.

Hand Applied (Meso Type)

It is the same as regular hand-applied dispensers, but usually with a higher quantity of pheromone so that it can be applied at lower densities.

Pros: 

• Reduced labor costs compared to regular hand-applied mating disruption due to lower application density.
  

Cons:

• Pheromone release rate is related to temperature, so most release occurs during the day rather than night when pests are most active.

Sprayable (Microencapsulated)

A liquid formulation that is applied with standard spray equipment.

Pros:

• Easy application - can be applied with standard spray equipment
• Options to include in tank mixes

Cons:

• Pheromone release rate related to temperature
• Needs multiple applications through the growing season
• Certain products may not be compatible for tank mixing
• Longevity affected by the elements - may be washed off or degraded by rain, sunlight, wind etc.

Fixed-Rate Aerosol Emitters

Pheromones in aerosol cans are placed into a cabinet with a motor that will dispense pheromones at regular intervals.

Pros:

• Pheromone release rate can be scheduled.
• Pheromones are protected from environmental factors that could affect stability.
• Reduced labor cost due to lower density application compared to hand applied.

Cons:

• Higher upfront costs
• Risk of mechanical failure

Semios' Variable-Rate Aerosol Emitters

Pros:

An example of a Semios aerosol emitter hanging in an apple orchard.

Making the Right Choice

Selecting the right mating disruption product requires evaluating factors beyond price, including pest specificity, deployment ease, effectiveness, and available support. 

By considering these key aspects, you can invest in a solution that not only enhances pest control but also contributes to a more sustainable and efficient farm operation.

Want to Learn More?

Semios' Mating Disruption not only helps control pest pressure but also provides added value with per-acre weather data. Not just that, Semios offers other tools for water management. Learn more about how these integrated solutions can optimize your farm’s efficiency while making your life easier. 

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