ARS | Publication request: SURROUND: A NEW PRODUCT FOR FRUIT PRODUCTION

Submitted to: National and Southeast Peach Convention Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract
Publication Acceptance Date: March 1, 2003
Publication Date: April 19, 2003
Citation: GLENN, D.M., PUTERKA, G.J. SURROUND: A NEW PRODUCT FOR FRUIT PRODUCTION. NATIONAL AND SOUTHEAST PEACH CONVENTION PROCEEDINGS. 2003.

Technical Abstract: Particle film technology was developed for the application of aqueous formulations of chemically inert kaolin mineral particles to crop plants to protect them from insect pests and environmental stresses. Field research showed that this technology is a safe alternative to organophosphate and carbamate insecticides in a wide range of crops including apple, pear, grape, blackberry, tomato, peach, and nectarine. The particle film product 'Surround Crop Protectant' is the first material to provide suppression of high heat damage and sunburn without the use of evaporative cooling. In organic agriculture, particle film technology represents the first broad utility material that provides insect control and high produce quality in organic fruits and vegetables. Its adoption by organic growers will increase the growth of this expanding industry in the U.S. and globally. Particle film technology, while still in its infancy, represents a broadly-based insect control system whose impact could be similar to the the first synthetic insecticides but without the adverse effects on ecosystems. Additionally, particle film technology provides agriculture with the first sunburn and heat management tool that can manipulate ultraviolet, photosynthetically active radiation, and infrared radiation.