Report: Horticultural oils for grape pest management
By Dr. Tom Lowery, AAFC Summerland: Spray oils have changed considerably and it seems an appropriate time to discuss the utility of horticultural oils, also known as plant spray oils (PSO), and how they can contribute to an integrated pest management program for grapes. There is resurgent interest in oils due to the availability of highly refined products, their multiple uses, demonstrated effectiveness, and competitive cost. They can be used to help control the spread of certain plant viruses and also used as adjuvants, surfactants, insecticides, or fungicides.