We have a solution – predatory mites, insecticides, miticides to paraffin oils
The outbreak of persea mites in Kenya is devastating avocado farms and sending shockwaves across the country’s avocado-growing regions. Farmers are panicking as trees shed their leaves and fruits, with some orchards left bare and drying up. The infestation is fast-spreading, and if left uncontrolled, it threatens to cripple one of Kenya’s most lucrative export crops.
In response to this crisis, the Kenya Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) has moved swiftly and, under an emergency registration, approved a list of effective solutions to manage and control Persea mite infestations. These products—ranging from insecticides and miticides to biological controls like predatory mites—can now be used until March 31, 2026.
This emergency registration offers a lifeline to avocado farmers grappling with the destructive Persea mite outbreak. With the right knowledge and tools now available, it’s possible to bring the situation under control and restore productivity to affected farms.
Below is a list of approved products, their active ingredients, local suppliers, and how they work to combat the Persea mite:
- MAZAO ACHIEVE
• Active Ingredient: Metarhizium anisopliae ICIPE 78 (110¹¹ cfu/ml)*
• Formulated by: The Real IPM Company (K) Ltd, Kenya
• Type: Bio-insecticide
• Target: Persea Mites
• Use: Applied on avocado trees to biologically control mite populations through fungal action. - REAL CALIFORNICUS
• Active Agent: Amblyseius californicus (12,500 mites per 250ml bottle)
• Supplier: The Real IPM Company (K) Ltd, Kenya
• Type: Predatory mites
• Target: Persea Mites
• Use: Introduced into the orchard to naturally prey on and reduce the population of Persea mites. - SPIDOR 240 SC
• Active Ingredient: 240g/l insecticide formulation
• Manufacturer: Yongnong Biosciences Co Ltd, China
• Local Agent: Kenagro Suppliers Ltd
• Use: Chemical insecticide specifically formulated to control Persea mites on avocados. - MUMMINET EC
• Active Ingredient: Polyalkyleneoxide Modified Heptamethyltrisiloxane (80%)
• Manufacturer: ICB PHARMA
• Local Agent: The Real IPM Company (K) Ltd
• Use: An effective insecticide that works by enhancing spread and penetration on the leaf surface, improving mite control. - SEGATRON ULTRA LIQUID
• Active Ingredient: Paraffin oil (98%)
• Formulated by: Osho Chemical Industries Ltd
• Manufacturers: Raj Petro Specialities, Apar Industries, Kukdong Oil & Chemicals, Gandhar Oil Refinery
• Use: Works by suffocating mites on contact. It’s a physical mode of action and an eco-friendlier alternative to harsh chemicals. - SAVAGE 240 SC
• Active Ingredient: Spirodiclofen (240 g/Kg)
• Manufacturer: Shandong Kangqiao Bio-technology Co. Ltd, China
• Local Agent: East African Business Co. Ltd
• Type: Miticide/Ovicide
• Use: Specifically targets mites and their eggs, ensuring long-lasting control over Persea mite populations. - ACRAMITE 5EC
• Active Ingredient: Fenpyroximate (50g/L)
• Manufacturer: PI Industries Ltd, India
• Local Agent: East African Business Company Ltd
• Use: A fast-acting insecticide effective against adult mites on avocado trees.
What farmers should do
• Act Quickly: Early intervention is key. Once you notice signs like leaf drop, webbing, or drying branches, take action immediately.
• Consult an Expert: Work with agricultural extension officers or licensed pest control advisors to determine the most appropriate treatment for your farm.
• Follow Usage Guidelines: All products should be applied according to label instructions to ensure safety, effectiveness, and compliance with export standards.
• Integrated Approach: For best results, consider integrated pest management—combining biological solutions like predatory mites with targeted use of approved miticides or insecticides