A New Era in Pest Control: The Science Behind PRINCIPLE™ WP

BioWorks introduces an advanced pest management solution for growers 

In the demanding field of pest control, precision is essential. BioWorks’ newest biopesticide, PRINCIPLE WP, offers growers a powerful solution for controlling the most stubborn insect pests. Specially formulated to control thrips, aphids, whiteflies, and more, PRINCIPLE WP delivers reliable performance when it’s needed most.

 A Cutting-Edge New Solution

PRINCIPLE WP isn’t just another pest control product. Powered by Beauveria bassiana fungal strain BW 149, this newly formulated biopesticide will most certainly improve your pest management program.

“PRINCIPLE WP is a brand-new mycoinsecticide solution for the industry,” says Julie Graesch, BioWorks technical services manager.  “It provides growers with an easy-to-use formulation, broad label with multiple application types including dips, and use in both indoor and outdoor crops.”

Unlike competitive wettable powders that leave behind unsightly residues, PRINCIPLE WP’s formulation offers excellent dispersion in water, minimal dust when mixing, and leaves little to no residue, ensuring crops remain visibly attractive. From food crops to ornamental plants, this biopesticide is ready for action.

In the field, PRINCIPLE WP proves highly effective when used as part of an integrated crop protection strategy. Early adopters have seen effective management of thrips, root aphids, and whiteflies when using PRINCIPLE in a compatible tank-mix or as a rotational partner.

“Depending on a grower’s strategy, it can be tank mixed or rotated with other plant protection products,” Graesch says. “It has a high level of compatibility and pairs well with insect growth regulators, which can be especially important for insects with fast life cycles like aphids and thrips.”

While effective on its own, PRINCIPLE WP works extremely well when paired with insect growth regulators as well as horticultural or essential oil products. These product combinations can quickly knock down high pest populations and give PRINCIPLE WP the upper hand controlling problematic pests.

How It Works

The spores in PRINCIPLE WP’s formula are designed to target and attack the pests’ vulnerable spots like areas with thin cuticles such as joints and mouthparts. After the spores germinate and penetrate the insect, the fungus will typically kill the insect in 24 to 48 hours depending on the size of the insect.  During this infection period, insects will reduce activities such as feeding and movement.

More than one application is often critical to achieve a consistent high number of spores in the treated environment.  When making applications, ensure full plant or soil coverage to achieve the most effective pest management.  Do not rely on sporulation from infected insects, this will not generate enough spores to control rapidly growing pest populations.

Reach Target Areas

“The biggest failure of biopesticides is poor coverage.” says Graesch. “Many insects such as aphids, whiteflies, and thrips are found on the underside of leaves. Thrips are highly mobile and will pick up spores as they move around. However, aphids and whiteflies are mostly stationery so you must use proper application equipment and techniques to ensure full plant canopy and/or soil coverage. Additionally, tank mixing PRINCIPLE WP with a compatible wetting agent can improve coverage and increase efficacy.”

 PRINCIPLE WP can also be used in programs that utilize regular releases of natural enemies.

“If a grower is using predatory mites, this product is very compatible with those agents,” says Eric Clifton, BioWorks research and development lead.

Results That Last

In the ongoing battle against pests, PRINCIPLE WP is a great option for growers to include in their integrated pest management program. With its unique formulation, extensive label, and excellent pest mortality, PRINCIPLE WP is set to revolutionize pest control.