PFR-97 10% ES Liquid Bioinsecticide for Greenhouses
Soft-bodied pests on greenhouse crops multiply quickly, and a living fungus gives growers a biological way to work through them. This Certis formulation, EPA registration 70051-133, is the liquid version of PFR-97. It contains 10.0% Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97, formerly known as Paecilomyces fumosoroseus. Every milliliter holds at least 5 x 109 viable spores. The spores attach to the pest, penetrate the cuticle and grow inside until the insect or mite dies. The fungus then emerges and releases fresh spores that can infect other pests. Foliar sprays target whiteflies, aphids, thrips, spider mites, leafminers, mealybugs, psyllids and Lygus bugs. Soil applications reach black vine weevil, root weevils, thrips pupae, rootworms, wireworms, grubs and caterpillars. Labelled crops include ornamentals, herbs, spices, vegetables, melons, strawberries and nursery stock, including hydroponic crops. The restricted-entry interval is 4 hours. The product is compatible with beneficial arthropods, so it fits a biological control program.
Applying Isaria fumosorosea for Best Results
Mix 14 to 28 fl oz per 100 gallons of clean water, and agitate for 20 to 30 minutes so the spores hydrate fully. A pint can also be premixed in 5 gallons of water and then diluted or injected. Keep the tank agitated during application. Repeat every three to ten days over two to three weeks, or as pest pressure demands. Frequent low-rate sprays, such as 14 to 16 fl oz every three to five days, usually beat heavy, infrequent ones. Move up to 24 to 28 fl oz for large or dense canopies. For potted plants, drench 4 fl oz per pot up to 6 in across, 8 fl oz up to 12 in, or a pint for larger pots. The fungus works best with relative humidity of 80% or higher for 8 to 10 hours. Spraying at moderate temperatures with little air movement keeps the spores from drying out. Copper fungicides are compatible, but keep other fungicides at least five days away. Store it cool, out of sun and below 68°F, or refrigerated.
Key Features
- Live Isaria fumosorosea: 10% Apopka Strain 97 with at least 5 x 10^9 viable spores per milliliter.
- Foliar and Soil Pests: Covers whiteflies, aphids, thrips, spider mites and mealybugs, plus root weevils and soil larvae.
- Spray, Drench or Chemigate: Liquid suspension works in sprayers, foggers, pot drenches and drip lines.
- 4-Hour REI: Crews can return to treated greenhouses quickly.
- Beneficial-Friendly: Compatible with beneficial arthropods in a biological control program.
- Copper Compatible: Tank mixes with copper fungicides without losing performance.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product code | PFR-97ES |
| Size | 1 gal |
| EPA Reg. No. | 70051-133 |
| Active ingredient | Isaria fumosorosea Apopka Strain 97, 10.0% (minimum 5 x 10^9 viable spores/mL) |
| Formulation | Liquid ES suspension; contains petroleum distillates |
| Signal word | CAUTION |
| Spray rate | 14–28 fl oz per 100 gal water |
| Interval | Every 3–10 days over 2–3 weeks |
| Pot drench | 4 fl oz (pots to 6 in), 8 fl oz (to 12 in), 1 pint (larger) |
| Optimal conditions | 80%+ relative humidity for 8–10 hours; 70–90°F |
| Chemigation | Drip/trickle, sprinkler and flood systems per label |
| REI | 4 hours |
| Storage | Cool and dry, below 68°F; refrigeration acceptable |
| Granular version | PFR-97 20% WDG |