Bayer East Africa officially launched FLiPPER®, an innovative biological insecticide, at Interplant Roses in Naivasha. The event brought together flower growers and key industry stakeholders to discuss critical pest challenges and explore sustainable solutions. Among the topics addressed were Thrips, mealybugs, spidermites, nematodes and False Codling Moth (FCM), with Bayer presenting FLiPPER® as an effective, organic option for Thrips, Mealybugs and spider mites management.
Representatives from NemAfrica and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) provided valuable insights on pest control strategies during the launch. Elgon Kenya was announced as the official distributor of FLiPPER® in the region.
What is FLiPPER®?
FLiPPER® is an innovative bio-insecticide and miticide whose active substance is derived from extra-virgin olive oil production. It offers growers a sustainable solution for controlling key pests in fruit and vegetable crops while ensuring the safety of crops, users, pollinators, and beneficial insects. The product is registered across the European Union (EU), exempt from EU maximum residue limits (MRLs), and approved for organic farming.
FLiPPER® is also ideal for integrated spray programs and works effectively alongside conventional crop protection products such as Sivanto Prime and Movento 48 SC.
How FLiPPER® Works
FLIPPER® is a biological insecticide that acts upon contact with the pest’s body, effectively targeting all growth stages of thrips, mealybugs, and spider mites in roses. Its active ingredient, Fatty Acids Potassium Salts (479.8 g/L), works by penetrating the external layers of the target pest and reaching the cell membrane through its lipophilic carbon chains.
Once inside, the unsaturated portion of the carbon chains binds with vital cell components, disrupting membrane fluidity and overall cell functionality. This interference affects the feeding activity of phytophagous insects, ultimately leading to their mortality. Additionally, FLiPPER® can obstruct insect trachea, further disrupting respiration and enhancing its insecticidal effect.
FLiPPER® provides highly effective control of thrips, mealybugs, and spider mites at all growth stages, making it an essential tool for rose growers seeking reliable pest management. It is gentle on pollinators, including bumblebees and honeybees, as well as beneficial insects and mites, thus it’s a sustainable choice for pest control.
Application Guidelines for Optimal Performance
To maximize efficacy, proper application is essential. At the first signs of infestation, it is advisable to apply a foliar spray with enough water to thoroughly wet both the pests and the host crop, ensuring complete coverage of the upper and lower leaf surfaces for maximum effectiveness. Since the product works on contact, it is essential to reach all target pests directly.
Sprayers should avoid spraying plants with curled leaves when possible and ensure creeping vegetation is well treated. FLIPPER® leaves no residual activity, so efficacy should be assessed not earlier than 72 hours after application. If pest pressure remains high, repeat treatments may be necessary, with a maximum of three consecutive applications at seven-day intervals, always following the recommended rates and guidelines.
Proper Handling of FLIPPER® in Hard Water
Hard water contains calcium, magnesium, and other metallic ions that can interact with FLiPPER®, forming largely insoluble salts. This reaction may cause the solution to appear milky or develop scum. In cases of extremely hard water, a heavy precipitate may form, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the product.
To prevent this, always add an approved water conditioning agent before mixing FLiPPER® with hard water. This step helps maintain the product’s full activity and ensures consistent crop safety in the spray solution.
By introducing FLiPPER® which is an organic, residue-free solution, Bayer East Africa provides growers with an environmentally friendly alternative that aligns with global agricultural trends. This product is set to play a crucial role in enhancing flower production while maintaining ecological balance as industry players embrace innovative pest control strategies.
