The efficiency of different materials for controlling vine mealybug, Planococcus ficus (Signoret) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)on grapes during the period of investigation.

The vine mealybug, Planococcus ficus (Signoret) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) was a majour pest in many grape vines growing regions in the world and Egypt. It is feeding on several agricultural and weedy plant species. However, grape vines are a preferred host, and are the most adversely affected by this insect. Like other mealybugs, vine mealybug feeds on phloem sap, but it can be found throughout the plant-even on the roots. The pest were suppressed by preventive measures with a view to reducing the impact of the attack. Allowed substances acting on the suitable time, if appropriate. Insecticide of plant origin citric acid are used in May before coloration. Along with the biological control of Chrysoperla carnea in July after coloration, as well as, low toxicity insecticide (Malathion) in January after pruning process. In the spring where the small buds appear a sequence of mineral oil (KZ) are used. The obtained data showed a significant effect on the different stages of the total insect population The obtained data indicated that, tested compound Citric acid on P. ficus infested grape showed a slight effect after three days from treatment, then their effect increased gradually to give the highest effectiveness after 18 days. Using the predator, C. carnea for controlling P. ficus infested grape, showed the effectiveness of this predator in reducing the P. ficus after releasing.