May 5, 2020

EPA approves new pesticide from FMC

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently granted FMC Corporation registration for Elevest insect control in a broad range of crops including potatoes, soybeans, sweet corn, cotton and peanuts.

New Elevest insect control combines full rates of Rynaxypyr active, the industry standard for Lepidopteran control, with full rates of bifenthrin, the leading pyrethroid.

Elevest (product label) insect control provides growers enhanced activity on select Lepidopteran pests and a broad spectrum of more than 40 insects, including yield-robbing stink bugs and plant bugs that plague southern row crops.

According to its label, Elevest can be used to combat Colorado potato beetles and potato tuberworms, among other pests that can affect potato plants and tubers.

Following a mild winter, like the one experienced in 2019-2020, the potential exists for high Lepidopteran and plant bug populations. Scouting fields and knowing the insect spectrum will be key to selecting the best tools for the current and later season conditions.

“Scouting ensures you use the right insecticide at the right time. A premix product only fits certain situations,” said Bruce Stripling, regional technical service manager for FMC. “If growers are fighting Lepidopteran insects, Prevathon insect control with the single active ingredient Rynaxypyr is the best agronomic choice for effective control — while also being cognizant of the value of conserving beneficial insects. However, later in the season, when growers may have to fight Lepidopteran pests plus other insects, that’s when the dual modes of action and broad-spectrum activity of Elevest insect control should be deployed.”

Visit an FMC Star Retailer or FMCcrop.com to learn more.