Acelepryn for bowling greens

Chemical control of Leatherjackets and Chafer Grubs

Important information for bowling greens

Syngenta recently had a full registration granted for the insecticide, Acelepryn (chlorantraniliprole). Acelepryn is applied at or just after the peak flight of chafer beetles or craneflies for the control of chafer grubs and leatherjackets. The Acelepryn very slowly percolates through the soil forming a layer at the grub zone and paralysing the grubs

		Chafer Grub
		Leather Jacket

Unfortunately, although, Acelepryn is approved for use on bowling greens, the label has an important restriction that states “The total surface area treated must not exceed 10% of the total area of managed amenity turf or amenity grassland in any given situation”. Therefore, unless the green is part of a larger complex of managed amenity turf, only 10% of the green can be treated. It is illegal not to follow the label requirements and both the club and person applying incorrectly could be prosecuted and their insurance would be invalidated.

Following a good Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy can help defend the green from the effects of an attack by leatherjackets and chafer grubs. Any measures to enhance root mass can help mitigate the effects of damage, including good soil moisture management, the use of a plant growth regulator (Primo Maxx II) and a balanced nutritional programme to minimise stress and aid resilience and good recovery from any attack. Ask one of Collier Turf Care’s FACTS Qualified Advisors to help you with a robust nutritional and stress relief management programme specific for your green.

Nematodes can also be useful in reducing numbers of grubs. These are microscopic worms that burrow their way into the juvenile grubs then reproduce inside them and eat them from inside out, leaving just an empty casing. There are many types of nematodes and only those that target the specific grub should be used so it is important to identify the problem grub correctly. Nematodes are alive and the application process must be followed correctly, or they will die and not attack the target grubs.

Chris Humphrey M.I. Soil Sci. MBPR FQA

Technical Manager

For advice, contact your Collier Turf Care representative or call 01328 700600