Rainbow Ecoscience announces Arbotect® 20-S as the leading solution for the systemic management of Beech Leaf Disease (BLD)

Minneapolis, MN – Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) is a significant issue that has led the rapid decline of beech trees across parts of the Eastern United States and Canada. It was first discovered in Ohio during 2012 and has since spread to several different states where all species of beech trees (Fagus spp.) are susceptible. BLD develops in whole or part by a foliar nematode (Litylenchus crenatae mccannii). While much of the biology and impact of this pest remains poorly understood, this a significant threat to beech trees, as it can kill a mature tree in as few as 6 years. Lacking management tools to solve this problem, industry researchers have undergone several studies to find a cure to this threatening situation.

Rainbow Ecoscience is excited to share that study results have shown two-year suppression of nematode populations, causing a reduction of BLD symptoms and overall dieback of the tree (Loyd, A. et al. 2024a). The success of this study comes from the use of Arbotect®20-S (26.6% Thiabendazole Hypophosphite) via macro-infusion tree injection. Arbotect®20-S has been used as the industry standard for preventive treatments of Dutch elm disease for nearly 40 years, in addition to being an effective product for managing sycamore anthracnose. With BLD now added to the list of diseases it can help manage, Arbotect®20-S remains a trusted tool in the toolbox.

The ideal treatment window is full leaf expansion through late July/early August. Accurate timing will provide the best efficacy for up to two seasons of BLD suppression (Loyd, A. et al. 2024b). Plan for next year’s treatments against BLD, with Arbotect®20-S. Rainbow Ecoscience is the sole distributor of Arbotect®20-S, manufactured by Syngenta. Rainbow has their Early Order Program (EOP) going on now through December 16th, where you can find discounts on many products and equipment, including Arbotect®20-S.

For more information about beech leaf disease, macro-infusion tree injection, or Arbotect®20-S, contact the Rainbow Ecoscience solution center at 877-272-6747.

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Citations

Paper (Loyd, A. et al. 2024a): Thiabendazole as a therapeutic root flare injection for beech leaf disease management. Loyd, A. L., Borden, M. A., Littlejohn, C. A., Rigsby, C. M., Brantley, B., Ware, M., McCurry, C., and K. Fite. 2024. Journal of Arboriculture & Urban Forestry. Accepted Sept 2024.

Poster (Loyd, A. et al. 2024b): Developing a tree injection management tool for beech leaf disease using thiabendazole. Loyd, A. L., and M. A. Borden. July 2024. Plant Health 2024, Memphis, TN. DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.17949.73448

About Rainbow

For over 20 years, Rainbow has provided science-based, research-backed plant health care products, equipment, training, and technical support to tree care and landscape professionals. Rainbow conducts over 100 research trials each year with their commercial and academic research partners to develop the next generation of plant health care solutions that deliver proven, predictable results.

Contact

Jack Taylor, Product Marketing Manager
jtaylor@rainbowecoscience.com

Dr. Mathew Borden, BTRL. 2024. Beech leaf disease. BLD, Untreated left and treated right with Arbotect (first season after treatment). Arbotect Trial, Hillsborough Township, NJ.