The effect of copper on the uptake and translocation of spirotetramat insecticide on kiwifruit

Spirotetramat (Movento®) is a systemic insecticide that is used to control scale insects on kiwifruit. The use of protectant copper sprays on kiwifruit has become increasingly common due to the bacterial disease Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae. This study investigated the interaction of copper with spirotetramat and how it influenced the uptake and translocation of spirotetramat within the plant. Movento® 100SC sprays should not be tankmixed with copper sprays because the uptake and translocation of spirotetramat is likely to be compromised. These negative effects were minimised when an organosilicone/organic fluid blend adjuvant (Du-Wett®) was included in the tank mix. Pre-and post spray applications of copper, at least 1 week either side of spirotetramat applications, are unlikely to significantly affect the uptake and translocation of spirotetramat, and thus have any effect on its activity. There were no marked differences between two commercial copper formulations, in their effects on spirotetramat uptake but minor differences in translocation were observed.