Kaolin Sprays are an insect barrier applied to orchard and field plants to exclude pests. The spray is made from kaolinite, which is a kind of clay. Brand names include "Cocoon" and "Surround".
Kaolin sprays work as a physical barrier, irritating the mouthparts of chewing insects, and preventing oviposition by pests with boring or mining larvae.
This spray is used primarily in organic farming. It must be reapplied after heavy rains or rapid growth.
Lalancette et al. 2005. Evaluation of hydrophobic and hydrophilic kaolin particle films for peach crop, arthropod and disease management. Pest Management Science Volume 61, Issue 1, pages 25–39, January 2005.
Famous quotes containing the word spray:
“Sovran of beauty! like the spray she grows,
Compassed she is with thorns and cankered bower.
Yet were she willing to be plucked and worn,
She would be gathered, though she grew on thorn.”
—Robert Greene (1558?–1592)