Effects of Kaolin Clay Application on Flower Bud Development, Fruit Quality and Yield, and Flower Thrips [Frankliniellaspp. (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)] Populations of Blueberry Plants

Three separate studies were conducted to report the effects of kaolin applications (Surround WP) on southern highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) and rabbiteye (V. ashei Reade) blueberries. When applied to mature blueberry plants, kaolin clay emulsion dried to form a white reflective film that affected bud development, fruit set and development, plant growth, and fruit yield, but had no effect on fruit quality parameters. When kaolin was applied before fruit set, yield was increased with no significant residue left on the fruit. Surround WP consistently reduced the number of flower thrips (Frankliniella spp.) within the canopy of rabbiteye blueberry plants by approximately 50%. Kaolin applications were not phytotoxic to blueberry buds, flowers, leaves, or fruit and were harmless to foraging bees.