BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed: A Comprehensive Guide
BioAdvanced’s dual-action formula delivers 12-month insect protection and feeding with a single application, safeguarding trees and shrubs from damaging pests and providing essential nutrients.
What is BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed?
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed is a systemic insecticide and fertilizer designed to protect trees and shrubs from a wide range of damaging pests for up to 12 months with just one application. This innovative product combines powerful insect control with essential plant nutrition, offering a convenient, dual-action solution for maintaining healthy, vibrant landscapes.
Available in both concentrate and granular formulations, it targets insects like aphids, Japanese beetles, borers (including the Emerald Ash Borer), adelgids, leafminers, and scale. The systemic nature of the insecticide means it’s absorbed into the plant’s tissues, providing protection from the inside out. Simultaneously, the fertilizer component delivers vital nutrients, promoting robust growth and overall plant health. It’s a preventative and curative treatment, ideal for annual application in early spring or late winter.
Key Features and Benefits
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed boasts several key features, foremost being its 12-month systemic protection against a broad spectrum of damaging insects. This long-lasting control minimizes the need for repeated applications, saving time and effort. The dual-action formula simultaneously feeds plants with a slow-release fertilizer, promoting healthy growth and vigor.
Its systemic action ensures protection throughout the entire plant, even new growth, as the insecticide is absorbed and distributed via the plant’s vascular system. Available in both convenient concentrate and easy-to-apply granular forms, it caters to diverse user preferences. This product effectively targets pests like aphids, Japanese beetles, and borers, including the devastating Emerald Ash Borer, offering comprehensive plant health support with a single annual treatment.
Target Pests – What Does it Protect Against?
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed provides robust defense against a wide array of troublesome pests. It effectively controls aphids and adelgids, notorious for causing distorted growth and honeydew production. Prevention of Japanese beetle damage is another key benefit, safeguarding foliage from their destructive feeding habits. Critically, it offers borer protection, including against the Emerald Ash Borer, a significant threat to ash trees.
Beyond these, the formula tackles leafminers, scale insects, and whiteflies, ensuring comprehensive protection. The systemic action reaches pests feeding within the plant tissue, offering control where contact insecticides fail. This broad-spectrum efficacy makes it a valuable tool for maintaining the health and beauty of ornamental trees and shrubs, protecting them from a multitude of insect infestations.
Aphids and Adelgids Control
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed delivers effective control of aphids and adelgids, common sap-sucking insects that can severely damage trees and shrubs. Aphids cause distorted new growth, sticky honeydew, and attract ants, while adelgids similarly weaken plants and create unsightly woolly masses.
The systemic action of this product is crucial; it’s absorbed into the plant’s tissues, reaching aphids and adelgids even as they feed. This provides thorough and lasting protection, unlike surface sprays that may only offer temporary relief. By targeting these pests internally, BioAdvanced prevents them from multiplying and causing further damage, promoting healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Consistent application, as directed, ensures season-long control.
Japanese Beetle Prevention
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed offers preventative control against destructive Japanese beetles, notorious for their skeletonizing damage to leaves and flowers. These beetles can quickly defoliate plants, weakening them and making them susceptible to disease. The product’s systemic action is key to effective prevention.
Unlike sprays that only target beetles on contact, BioAdvanced is absorbed into the plant, providing protection from within. When Japanese beetles feed on treated foliage, they ingest the insecticide, leading to their control. This proactive approach minimizes damage and preserves the aesthetic appeal and health of your trees and shrubs. Annual application, timed appropriately, creates a protective barrier against these persistent pests, ensuring a vibrant landscape.
Borer Protection (Including Emerald Ash Borer)
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed provides crucial systemic protection against borers, including the devastating Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). These pests tunnel into the tree’s cambium layer, disrupting nutrient flow and ultimately leading to decline and death. Traditional treatments often struggle to reach borers hidden within the wood.
However, BioAdvanced’s systemic formula is absorbed by the tree and distributed throughout its tissues, effectively targeting borers as they feed. This is particularly vital for EAB, which has caused widespread ash tree mortality. Annual application offers a proactive defense, preventing infestations and protecting valuable trees. Early detection and preventative treatment are essential for managing borer infestations and preserving the health of your landscape.
Application Timing: When to Apply
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed is uniquely designed for annual application, offering a full 12 months of continuous protection and vital nourishment. The optimal timing typically falls in early spring or late winter, before new growth emerges and pest activity intensifies. Applying at this stage allows the systemic insecticide and fertilizer to be absorbed as the tree breaks dormancy.
This proactive approach ensures the tree is protected throughout the entire growing season. While a single annual application is sufficient, consistent timing is key to maximizing effectiveness. Avoid applying during bloom to protect pollinators. Remember, this product provides long-lasting control, simplifying your tree and shrub care routine.
Determining Tree Circumference for Dosage
Accurate dosage is crucial for BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed effectiveness and tree health. To determine the circumference, use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the tree trunk at approximately 4.5 feet from the ground. Ensure the tape is snug but not constricting the bark.
Record this measurement in inches – this number directly correlates to the amount of concentrate needed. For example, a tree with a 20-inch circumference requires 20 ounces of concentrate diluted in water. Precise measurement prevents under-treatment, which compromises protection, and over-treatment, potentially harming the tree. Always double-check your measurement before mixing!
Mixing Instructions: Concentrate Form
When using the concentrate form of BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed, precise mixing is essential for optimal results. Begin by selecting a suitable container, ensuring it’s clean and clearly labeled. The standard dilution ratio is 1 ounce of concentrate per 1 gallon of water, per inch of tree circumference, as previously determined.
Carefully measure the required amount of concentrate and pour it into the water-filled container. Thoroughly mix the solution, ensuring complete dissolution. Utilize appropriate application tools like a pump sprayer or watering can for even distribution. Always wear gloves and eye protection during mixing and application to avoid potential irritation.
Dilution Ratio: Water to Concentrate
Establishing the correct dilution ratio is paramount when utilizing the BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed concentrate. The foundational guideline is a 1:1 ratio – 1 ounce of concentrate mixed with 1 gallon of water. However, this ratio is per inch of the tree’s circumference.
Therefore, a tree with a 20-inch circumference requires 20 ounces of concentrate mixed with 20 gallons of water. Accurate measurement is crucial; under-diluting may reduce efficacy, while over-diluting could harm the plant. Always add the concentrate to the water, mixing thoroughly to ensure a homogenous solution. Consistent adherence to this ratio guarantees optimal systemic absorption and pest control.
Application Tools and Techniques
For effective application of the BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed concentrate, a variety of tools can be employed. A garden sprayer is ideal for even distribution, ensuring thorough coverage around the tree’s base. Alternatively, a soil drench using a watering can with a rose head can also be effective.
Regardless of the tool, focus on applying the solution evenly around the drip line – the area directly beneath the outermost branches. Avoid direct foliar spray, as the systemic action relies on root absorption. Ensure the soil is adequately moistened before application to facilitate uptake. Post-application, lightly water the area to further encourage absorption and distribution throughout the root zone.
Granule Application: How to Spread
When utilizing BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed granules, even distribution is paramount for optimal results. A broadcast spreader is recommended for larger areas, ensuring consistent coverage. For individual plants, apply granules by hand, carefully measuring the appropriate amount based on tree circumference.
Sprinkle the granules evenly around the base of the tree or shrub, extending to the drip line – the area beneath the outermost branches. Gently work the granules into the top inch of soil, if possible, and thoroughly water the treated area. This helps activate the fertilizer and encourages systemic absorption of the insecticide. Avoid applying granules on hard surfaces to prevent runoff.
Coverage Area: How Much Product Per Plant
Determining the correct amount of BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed per plant is crucial for effective pest control and plant health. Dosage is directly related to the tree’s circumference, measured at 6 inches above the ground. For the concentrate form, mix 1 ounce per inch of circumference with 1 gallon of water.
Granule application rates vary; always consult the product label for specific instructions. Generally, smaller trees (under 12 inches circumference) require less product than larger, more established trees. Ensure thorough coverage to the drip line, but avoid over-application, which could potentially harm the plant. Proper dosage guarantees 12 months of systemic protection.
Safety Precautions During Application
When applying BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed, prioritize safety. Always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves/pants, to minimize skin contact. Avoid inhaling spray mist or dust; consider a respirator if ventilation is poor.
Keep children and pets away from the treated area until it’s completely dry. Do not apply on windy days to prevent drift onto non-target plants or areas. Avoid application before anticipated rainfall, as it may reduce effectiveness. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the product and before eating, drinking, or smoking. Store the product securely, out of reach of children and animals.
Feeding Component: Fertilizer Analysis
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed incorporates a slow-release fertilizer designed to nourish trees and shrubs alongside pest control. The fertilizer analysis provides essential nutrients for healthy growth, supporting vibrant foliage and robust root development. While specific N-P-K ratios may vary slightly depending on the product formulation (concentrate or granules), it generally delivers a balanced nutrient supply.
This feeding component sustains nutrient release for up to three months, complementing the 12-month pest protection. The fertilizer promotes overall plant vigor, enhancing resilience against environmental stressors and contributing to long-term health. It’s a convenient way to both defend against insects and provide vital nourishment in a single application.
Duration of Protection: 12-Month Systemic Control
BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed distinguishes itself with its extended, 12-month systemic insect control. This isn’t merely a surface treatment; the active ingredients are absorbed by the plant and distributed throughout its tissues. This systemic action provides ongoing protection against a wide range of damaging pests, even as new growth emerges.
Annual application, typically in early spring or late winter, is key to maintaining this continuous defense. The product effectively prevents re-infestation for a full year, reducing the need for repeated treatments. This long-lasting protection safeguards trees and shrubs from pests like aphids, Japanese beetles, and even the devastating Emerald Ash Borer, ensuring their health and vitality throughout the growing season.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
While BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed is effective, users should be aware of potential considerations. Overapplication can harm trees, emphasizing the importance of accurate dosage based on tree circumference. Avoid applying during bloom to protect pollinators, as the product is toxic to bees if they come into contact with treated foliage.
Temporary leaf burn may occur, particularly under stress conditions like drought. Systemic insecticides can sometimes affect beneficial insects, though the impact is generally localized. Always follow label instructions carefully and avoid drift onto non-target plants. Proper storage and disposal are crucial to prevent environmental contamination and ensure safety for humans and animals.
Storage and Disposal Guidelines
Proper BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect & Feed storage is vital for maintaining product integrity and safety. Keep the container closed and stored in a cool, dry place, inaccessible to children and pets. Avoid storing near food or feedstuffs. Temperature extremes should be avoided to prevent degradation of the formula.
For disposal, do not reuse the empty container. Rinse it thoroughly with water and offer it for recycling if available, or dispose of it according to local regulations. Never pour unused product down the drain or into waterways. Contact your local waste disposal authority for specific guidance on pesticide disposal in your area, ensuring environmental responsibility.
Comparing Forms: Concentrate vs. Granules
BioAdvanced Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed is available in both concentrate and granular formulations, each offering unique application benefits. The concentrate requires mixing with water and is typically applied as a soil drench, ensuring systemic absorption directly at the roots. Granules are easier to spread, providing a slower release of both insecticide and fertilizer.
Concentrate offers precise dosage control based on tree circumference, while granules are convenient for larger areas. Both forms deliver 12-month pest protection, but the concentrate may offer quicker initial uptake. Choose the form that best suits your application preferences and the size/number of plants needing treatment, considering ease of use and desired speed of action.