Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV)
Quick Facts
- Type
- Viral biological control
- Source
- Naturally occurring baculoviruses that infect specific insect species
- OMRI Listed
- Yes ✓
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Yes
- Residual
- UV sensitive; 3-5 days persistence; reapply weekly
- Best For
- Codling moth in apples (CpGV), beet armyworm, and other specific caterpillar pests.
What Is Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV)?
Caterpillars ingest virus particles, which dissolve in the alkaline gut and infect midgut cells. The virus replicates inside cells, eventually liquefying the caterpillar from within. Dead larvae release billions of new virus particles onto foliage for other caterpillars.
Source: Naturally occurring baculoviruses that infect specific insect species
What Pests Does Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV) Kill?
Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV) is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV)
Best for: Codling moth in apples (CpGV), beet armyworm, and other specific caterpillar pests.
Avoid for: Broad-spectrum situations; non-caterpillar pests.
Residual activity: UV sensitive; 3-5 days persistence; reapply weekly
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🟢 Safe for pets |
| Overall Rating | Safe — Safe for kids, pets, and bees when used as directed |
Why Isn't Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV) Working?
If Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV) isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
Highly host-specific — each NPV strain only infects one or a few species
Slow kill — 5-10 days from ingestion to death
UV degradation — apply in evening for best persistence
Timing critical — must target young larvae for fastest results
Best Nuclear Polyhedrosis Viruses (NPV) Products
Cyd-X
SuspensionCodling moth granulosis virus (CpGV) for apple/pear orchards
Gemstar
SuspensionHelicoverpa NPV for corn earworm and tobacco budworm