BUSINESS Syngenta

In the ever-evolving world of crop protection, VERTENTO® insecticide emerges as a groundbreaking solution for tree crop growers. This innovative product, powered by PLINAZOLIN® technology, offers a unique mode of action that promises to revolutionise pest management in almonds, avocados, citrus, macadamias, mangoes and papayas.

Supplied by Syngenta

A novel approach to pest control

VERTENTO® is classified as a Group 30 insecticide, making it the first of its kind registered for use in tree crops in Australia. This new mode of action is crucial for managing insecticide resistance, a growing concern in modern agriculture. The active ingredient, isocycloseram, works by targeting the insect’s nervous system at a completely new site, ensuring effectiveness against pests that may have developed resistance to other chemistries.

Powerful protection with low use rates

With 400 g/L of isocycloseram, VERTENTO® insecticide boasts a remarkably low use rate of just 5 mL/100 L. This concentrated formulation not only reduces the amount of product needed but also minimises environmental impact with less packs to transport, recycle and takes up less room in the chemical shed.

Despite its low use rate, VERTENTO® insecticide delivers robust efficacy against key pests such as spotting bugs and macadamia seed weevil.

Rapid action

VERTENTO® insecticide acts through both contact and ingestion, stopping pest feeding within hours of application. While it effectively paralyses insect pests immediately, it may take a couple of days for them to die and fall from the trees.

Optimised for Australian conditions

The VERTENTO® insecticide formulation has been specifically designed to withstand the harsh Australian climate. Its excellent sunlight stability and rainfast properties ensure consistent protection for your crop, even in challenging weather conditions.

Versatility across tree crops and pests

With registrations in almonds, citrus, avocados, mangoes, macadamias and papayas, across a range of key pests, VERTENTO® insecticide has versatility; making it a valuable tool for growers managing diverse orchards. With a wide window of application, it also makes it easy for growers to include in their insect management program.

Application best practices

Like any crop protection application, to maximise the effectiveness of VERTENTO® insecticide, growers must prioritise thorough coverage and accurate dosing. The product sits on the surface of the plant, making it essential to achieve complete and even distribution across the crop canopy. Always use a non-ionic adjuvant such as AGRAL® spray adjuvant with every application to enhance performance.

It is also important to adjust water volumes according to crop growth stage to ensure thorough coverage, and be aware that new growth emerging after application may not be protected.

Timing is crucial — monitor your orchard regularly and apply VERTENTO® insecticide only when local economic thresholds are reached and adhere to the label instructions, including the maximum number of applications per season and the minimum interval between sprays.

Integrated pest management considerations

While VERTENTO® insecticide is a powerful tool, it should be included as part of a comprehensive integrated pest management strategy. VERTENTO® insecticide may disrupt some beneficial arthropods.

Care should be taken to minimise spray drift to reduce harmful effects on beneficial arthropods in non-crop areas. Using VERTENTO® insecticide only when pests reach threshold and carefully timing beneficial releases will ensure pests are controlled and beneficials are not adversely impacted.

Orchard hygiene is also important. For instance, to assist macadamia seed weevil control or Carpophilus beetle in almonds, remove and destroy fallen nuts within two weeks of spraying to prevent the pest lifecycle from completing.

A valuable addition to your pest management toolkit

VERTENTO® insecticide represents a significant advancement in tree crop protection. Its novel mode of action, low use rate, and robust efficacy make it a valuable tool for growers seeking to optimise their pest management strategies. By incorporating VERTENTO® insecticide into your program and following best application practices, you can enhance the protection of your orchard, potentially improve crop yields and quality, and ultimately increase the profitability of your tree crop operation.

With its impressive performance and unique chemistry, VERTENTO® insecticide has the potential to become an indispensable tool in your efforts to grow healthy, productive tree crops for years to come.

Syngenta is a leading agriculture company helping to improve global food security by enabling millions of farmers to make better use of available resources. Through world class science and innovative crop solutions, our 28,000 people in over 90 countries are working to transform how crops are grown. We are committed to rescuing land from degradation, enhancing biodiversity and revitalising rural communities. To learn more visit www.syngenta.com.au