Tree crop growers who are looking to enhance pollination in crops such as apples, pears, stone fruit and cherries should consider Bee-Scent from Grochem Australia.
Bee-Scent is a pheromone-based formulation that attracts foraging honey bees to treated blossoms.
By attracting bees to the target crop, Bee-Scent enhances pollination which is essential for improving fruit yield and quality.
Ben Coombe, general manager of Grochem Australia, says pome and stone fruit can be difficult to pollinate, particularly when grown under protective netting.
“By imitating the pheromones produced by bees, Bee-Scent encourages foraging behaviour by bees among treated blossoms and they work harder in these blossoms instead of flowering plants elsewhere,” Mr Coombe said.
“This increase in foraging intensity improves crop pollination and leads to better fruit set and enhanced fruit quality.”
Bee-Scent has also proven to enhance flowering in almonds, avocados, berries, kiwifruit, melons and other cucurbits.
Application
Mr Coombe recommended applying Bee-Scent as a cover spray over flowering, using ground or aerial equipment.
Compatible with most fungicides applied during flowering, Bee-Scent is non-toxic and considered safe for applicators, crops and honey bees alike.
“For the best results, we recommend growers apply Bee-Scent at early bloom, say 5 to 30 per cent, and again at 70 to 100 per cent, using sufficient water to give thorough coverage,” he said.
“Crops that bloom over a long time may require applications at regular intervals.
“Virtually every crop can benefit from additional bee foraging, and with the help of Bee-Scent, growers can make the most of bees to enhance yields and produce more marketable fruit.”
Bee-Scent is available from Grochem Australia.
Contact Ben
M: 0447 300 959
P: 03 967 699 30 or 1800 777 068
E:
Web: www.grochem.com
See this article in Tree Fruit July 2022
