Using gyroplane for application of Trichogramma spp. against the European corn borer in maize.

Background: Achieving sustainability of agricultural production is one of the key challenges for humanity. Minimizing the use of chemicals and replacing them with biological plant protection is, firstly, fully in line with the agriculture's development strategy and, secondly, confirmed to be achievable in practice. For instance, many researchers point to the potential of using Trichogramma spp. to control Ostrinia nubilalis in maize. However, the application methods for preparations containing Trichogramma spp. are still at the stage of development. So far, ground application proved time and energy consuming. Aerial application using ultralight aircraft is a new option.

Results: The present study presents the results of tests on the effectiveness of applying Trichogramma spp. from the board of an ultralight gyroplane. A 6-year experiment was conducted on a maize monoculture located in south-western Poland. The results indicate that the low-height aerial application allows precise dosing and satisfactory distribution of the biopesticide. The efficacy of 60-85% (depending on the year) of the gyroplane-based spraying operations was comparable with that observed for ground application.

Conclusion: Considering the speed and high efficiency of the treatment, using a gyroplane as a carrier of the biopesticide application system is a good alternative to the other methods. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.