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Guide to Effective Control

Why Rotation Matters: Smart Use for Long-Term Control

Codling moth pressure has remained high in recent seasons, increasing the risk of resistance development. When a single product is used repeatedly, it gives any resistant individuals a chance to survive, reproduce, and eventually dominate—leading to reduced efficacy and higher control costs.

That’s why proactive rotation is essential.

The Certis virus portfolio—Madex® XLV, Madex® HP, and Cyd-X®HP—features distinct genotypes that each target codling moth larvae differently. This built-in diversity breaks resistance cycles and maintains long-term control.

How to Rotate for Maximum Performance

To get the best performance and preserve long-term control, follow this rotation strategy:

  1. Start with Madex® XLV in the first codling moth generation—it's the only virus strain that can control known CpGV-resistant codling moth in the US.

  2. Rotate in the second generation to either Cyd-X®HP or Madex® HP depending on your specific pest profile.

  3. Continue rotating with each new generation to avoid resistance buildup and ensure consistent protection. 
Best Use Practices

1. Use with mating disruption

2. Scout diligently to apply products in time for best efficacy. Viral insecticides take time to work and are not useful as a rescue treatment once infestation occurs.

3. Take overall climate into account while scouting. Larvae populations can differ within an orchard due to microclimates such as topography or elevation. 

4. Start applications at 3-5% egg hatch

5. Apply products late in the day or evening, when UV levels are low

6. Ensure product applications fully penetrate the canopy to reach the underside of plant leaves. 

7. Limit application with electrostatic sprayers, as they may not provide sufficient coverage for optimal efficacy. 

8. Mix product with an UV inhibitor for best results.

9. Utilize proper orchard sanitation methods, especially those related to bin sanitation. Remove bins from orchards promptly as they provide areas of overwintering for pests. 

Benefits of Virus Technology

Fast, Early Control

Over 90% of insect mortality occurs within hours of feeding after a single application.

Worker & Harvest Friendly

4-hour REI and 0-day PHI allow for quick re-entry and harvest, with no EPA residue tolerance.

Low Use Rate, Strong Results

Just 1–2 occlusion bodies (OBs) per insect deliver a lethal dose.

Built-in Persistence

Once ingested, the virus remains active inside the pest, protected from sunlight and degradation.

Flexible Application

Can be used in environmentally sensitive areas, including near water and beneficials.

Tank-Mix Compatible

Works well with most crop protection products; optimal performance at pH 5–8.

Resources

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