Syngenta Thrive

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Powdery mildew is a yearly agronomic challenge for California grape growers. We talked with Rodger Belisle, Syngenta Agronomic Service Representative, who shared what he’s seen in grape vineyards this season and how to manage invasive threats to grape yields.

Q: What are some common fungal diseases you’re seeing in grapes this season?

A: Powdery mildew is the main disease we are seeing in wine and table grapes. There’s also Botrytis and sour rot. Botrytis spores infect flowers and injured plant parts. Sour rot is a complex of fungal pathogens that causes some decay on previously infected grapes. Powdery mildew is the main issue, and that’s what you should spray for throughout the season.

Q: What would you recommend to control powdery mildew?

A: A well-structured cycle of sprays every 14 to 21 days is recommended. Timings are aligned with key stages of grapevine development. Sprays should be made at two weeks pre-bloom to initiate the cycle, followed by sprays at full bloom, throughout the growing season, at bunch closure, and during veraison, a color-changing phase at ripening.

Q: What results have you seen from Miravis Prime in grapes?

A: There is a tremendous amount of powdery mildew pressure. All the trials had high pressure, however the plots treated with Miravis® Prime fungicide had zero incidence. We were able to knock it down almost completely throughout the trials I conducted across California.

The main point here is that you want to keep on top of a spray program. There’s not an alternative for wine grape production or even table grape production. These sprays are vital to keep your crop in marketable condition.

Q: Are there any other recommendations you have for growers?

A: The takeaway on powdery mildew is that the inoculum is always there; the spores are always around. It’s when you get the conditions where the disease thrives — on days with six hours or more of a 70˚ to 85˚ temperatures — that you get a lot of problems.

Miravis Prime has done an excellent job controlling powdery mildew this year, but you should be conscious not to overuse it, or any other product, because of resistance development. Instead, rotate in different FRAC groups. No matter how good a product is, if you overuse it, it’s not going to be as effective as it used to be.

A comparison photo shows untreated grapes heavily impacted by powdery mildew next to healthy grapes treated with Miravis Prime
Untreated grapes (left) heavily impacted by powdery mildew compared to grapes treated with Miravis Prime (right) near Davis, CA, July 2022

For more insight into your grape vineyards and pest management, contact your Syngenta representative.

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Seed treatment technologies are effective tools for achieving greater yields, healthier crops and higher ROIs. Because of their value, the people who make, transport, apply and use these technologies constantly work together to maintain their environmental integrity.

“Stewardship is a driver for a lot of our new technology and innovation,” says Tammy Tyler, federal regulatory team lead at Syngenta . “The evolving landscape of seed treatment technologies not only promotes environmental stewardship, but also actively safeguards the strength and adaptability of agricultural systems.”

For example, Syngenta has worked to make seed coatings more durable, which helps reduce the amount of dust-off and non-target exposure. “We’re constantly working to improve our technology so products show great results while supporting stewardship,” says John Abbott, head of regulatory and stewardship at Syngenta.

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Stewardship is a driver for a lot of our new technology and innovation. The evolving landscape of seed treatment technologies not only promotes environmental stewardship, but also actively safeguards the strength and adaptability of agricultural systems.

Tammy Tyler Federal Regulatory Team Lead at Syngenta

Syngenta makes it a priority to collaborate, educate and advocate for stewardship through the responsible use of crop protection and seed treatment products. Syngenta teams work directly with farmers, seed treaters, applicators, distributors and retailers to share stewardship management practices that help promote the safe and responsible use of products, according to the label.

“Stewardship is a philosophy we have for all of our products,” says Mark White, regulatory team lead for herbicides at Syngenta. “The label is the law; when products are used according to label requirements, they are safe from a human health and environmental standpoint.”

Education is also key. That’s why Syngenta has collaborated with other seed companies, seed treatment providers and universities to develop the Guide to Seed Treatment Stewardship.

“The guide isn’t static. It is in the process of being updated to reflect the ever-evolving developments in seed technology,” says Patsy Laird, regulatory product manager at Syngenta. “This is a great resource for farmers and applicators to access the most up-to-date stewardship information.”

To learn more about responsible product use and to access educational resources, please visit www.syngenta-us.com/beehealth/stewardship.

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White mold is one of the most prevalent disease threats to peanut growers across the Southeast. Without proper preventive treatment, this disease can damage roots and pegs, leading to reduced yield potential.

White mold is one of the most consistently damaging soil disease affecting peanuts in South Carolina and across the Southeast. White mold thrives in high soil temperatures and high humidity, making the Southeast an ideal climate for the disease.

Infection often begins underground, damaging pegs and pods early in the season. If left untreated, white mold can rot pods and pegs and cause root decay as the disease progresses.

Delays in planting, lack of rainfall and unusually hot temperatures favor white mold. The namesake symptom is a white, filmy substance on leaves, but the disease also leaves brown rot on limbs or shoots and brown lesions on stems and shoots. Early season intervention is the best defense against white mold damage in peanuts.

Elatus® fungicide delivers long-lasting protection against white mold in peanuts even under extreme disease pressure. Active ingredients azoxtstrobin and SOLATENOL® fungicide deliver excellent soilborne disease control and up to 28 days of white mold control in peanuts.

The ideal application timing for optimal white mold control is at 60 and 90 days after planting because most pod damage occurs during this window. Focus on even coverage when spraying Elatus and other peanut fungicides to deliver the most comprehensive disease control and long-lasting protection.

The extended residual control in Elatus offers application flexibility and peace of mind when weather conditions or busy schedules prevent timely application. According to the Wilson Faircloth, Ph.D., the Syngenta Peanut Doctor, Elatus delivers dependable white mold control and is considered the backbone of a successful fungicide program.

A bar chart shows increased yield with Elatus and Miravis fungicides compared to other products.
Trial results show that premium peanut fungicide programs with Elatus and Miravis® fungicide can deliver higher yield potential.

To learn more about Elatus, contact your local Syngenta sales representative.

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In peanut fields across the Southeast, diseases like Fusarium, Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Aspergillus are ramping up to attack. Seed treatments can help maximize yields and profit potential throughout the planting season by protecting vulnerable seedlings from these threats.

Once the furrow has been closed, there are no economically viable management options for crown rot diseases like Rhizoctonia and Aspergillus, highlighting the importance of strong seed treatments paired with early-season scouting.

Researchers from the University of Georgia and the University of Florida as well as researchers from Auburn University, Mississippi State University and Clemson University, found that untreated fungal diseases in peanuts could cause an estimated crop loss of more than 50%.

Trebuset® Peanuts seed treatment is a broad-spectrum liquid fungicide premix powered by ADEPIDYN® technology. It provides quick and effective absorption into the plant for longer-lasting suppression of damaging diseases. Trebuset Peanuts combines active ingredients from five high-performing fungicides ― Apron XL®, Dynasty®, Miravis®, Maxim® 4FS and Vibrance® ― that consistently protect peanut crops from early-season diseases.

Due to its liquid formulation, Trebuset Peanuts sticks to the seed and remains in the root zone as the plant grows, providing a strong start to a seed’s journey into a fully formed plant. As a result, Trebuset Peanuts consistently protects developing roots and plants, delivering strong stands and higher yield potential.

Hear from Syngenta experts as they explain how Trebuset Peanuts works to protect peanut growers’ yield potential:

This powerful seed treatment offers flexibility for custom mixing since it is compatible with other fungicides, insecticides, polymers and colorants.

To learn more about Trebuset Peanuts, talk with your local Syngenta representative.

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There is one constant when it comes to growing peanuts: steady pressure from the usual yield-robbing lepidopteran pests, including lesser cornstalk borer (LCB) and soybean looper.

Start the stopwatch after peanuts are planted and determine the best treatment windows for both pests. For LCB, that is 50-75 days after planting when the stand is established. Soybean looper pressure likely will be highest 75-120 days after planting. Close scouting will refine the need and best timing for treatment.

A lesser corn borer on a damaged peanut stem.
Photography by Steve L. Brown, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org.

LCB population outbreaks typically occur during hot, dry weather, especially in peanuts growing on sandy soils. If the weather is hot and wet instead, anticipate soybean looper worm flights will begin to pick up and head for your peanut fields.

Fortunately, peanut growers can control the two pests with one product: Besiege® insecticide.

For LCB, the ability to “wash in” an application with irrigation or timely rainfall optimizes control by improving coverage deep in the canopy. Because Besiege insecticide has good residual, a treatment for LCB control is often still available to help manage soybean loopers. As a bonus, the residual offers some control of leaf and alfalfa hoppers that kill leaves and stems.

Besiege insecticide offers broad spectrum knock down and residual activity, but also for its dual modes of action. Besiege insecticide controls lepidopteran, sucking and chewing insects by contact, ingestion and ovicidal action.

To help protect your peanut yields, watch the calendar for Besiege application timing and watch the weather for signs of potential pest problems.

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Taking precautions against invasive species early in the growing season is critical to a successful peanut crop. According to the University of Georgia Extension, growers should pay special attention to protecting emerging seedlings because the early season is a high-risk period for thrips.

Seedlings are especially susceptible to the damaging effects of thrips. This can lead to potential yield loss and opens the door to other viruses and diseases. Early management starts with monitoring and scouting fields regularly. A thrips infestation causes leaves to become distorted and covered in coarse stippling that can lead to them turning brown and dying.

To combat the effects of these tiny insects, remember to give plants adequate room to avoid overcrowding and provide proper irrigation and fertilization. Get ahead of the problem by treating peanut seeds with CruiserMaxx® Peanuts insecticide and fungicide seed treatment. CruiserMaxx® Peanuts supports robust and vigorous crops and protects against chewing and sucking insects.

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Cereal and pulse crop planting is right around the corner, so you may be monitoring the weather and soil temperature to determine when to get the seed in the ground. Aside from these conditions, there could be insects and diseases in the soil that can impact your crop. Planting treated seed can be your best defense against early-season pests and adverse planting conditions.

Disease is one of the largest contributors to a loss in yield potential. Cooler, wet climates like those found in the Pacific Northwest can bring about an increased risk of disease for cereal and pulse crops. These diseases, like Pythium, Fusarium, Rhizoctonia and common root rot destroy the crown and root tissues which prevent seedlings from developing strong roots. This early season root damage impacts yield potential as roots are unable to properly absorb vital water and nutrients.

In 2022, northern states lost an estimated 44.6 million bushels to disease. A quality seed treatment like Vayantis® can help control disease caused by Pythium species and maximize yield potential by protecting your plant’s roots. In a study done by North Dakota State University, a fungicide seed treatment improved plant stand by an average of 8.4%.

Another contributor to a loss in yield potential is insects. Some insects such as wireworms overwinter within the soil and begin to emerge during planting and early crop development stages. Wireworms will then feed on roots, seeds and young plants which puts stress on the crop and can lead to issues with emergence, plant stand and growth. When insects like wireworms feed on your crop’s roots and the seed itself, the result is a wilting, stunting or even killing of the plant.

It is often too late to treat your crop for these pests once the damage has been done, which is why the use of a seed treatment during planting is one of the best defenses against them. For in-season protection against wireworms and weak root development, a new insecticide seed treatment will be coming soon. Featuring active ingredient isocycloseram, an Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) Group 30, this new seed treatment will protect cereals and pulses from early-season stressors.

Are you interested in learning more about isocylocersam once it is available for use? Sign-up to be one of the first to learn more.

All photos are either the property of Syngenta or are used with permission. 

Isocycloseram is not yet registered for sale or use in the U.S. and is not being offered for sale.

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Are you ready for planting? To start the season off right, you need to consider planting depth and rate, soil moisture, weather conditions and historical pest pressure—to name a few factors!

Before you dust off the planter, go through our planting checklist to learn how to recognize the ideal conditions so you’re ready to take advantage of best-case timing. Read on for more corn and soybean planting tips, including the ideal planting depth and temperature.

An infographic with illustrations of corn seedlings, common weeds, and informative image examples with tips for planting tips to prepare to plant throughout.

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When thinking about planting wheat, be sure to consider how to help ensure even emergence and plant stand. Factors like early-season insect and disease pressure, soil temperature and uneven moisture levels can affect stand establishment and yield potential. It’s important to help set your crop up for a strong start because inconsistent stands can have consequences.

During planting, it is important to give your seeds and seedlings the best chance to grow while they are at their most vulnerable. There are a few factors to consider to help promote germination and seedling emergence, including soil moisture. A soil moisture of 1.2x the wilting point is needed for the wheat seed to successfully germinate. If the soil moisture falls below that level, germination may stall and damage to the seed could occur.

As plants begin to emerge, they must maintain a high level of photosynthesis to promote optimal growth and development. When uneven plant stands occur, smaller late-emerging plants are unable to receive the sunlight they need which negatively impacts yield potential. The yield lost from the smaller, weaker plants is not overcome by the larger, stronger plants. Less plant-to-plant variation helps increase yield potential.

In areas or fields with poor plant stands, you may need to endure the cost of replanting. Before making that tough decision, you must first assess your crop injury and stand establishment. Consider the existing yield potential based on the remaining plant stand and the additional costs associated with replanting before making your decision.

A quality seed treatment can help defend against early-season pest pressures while helping develop a strong plant stand. A new insecticide seed treatment in cereal and pulse crops will be available for use soon. Featuring active ingredient isocycloseram, an Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) Group 30, this new seed treatment will help crops’ germination potential and plant establishment while managing wireworm pressures in your field.

Are you interested in learning more about isocylocersam once it is available for use? Sign-up to be one of the first to learn more.

All photos are either the property of Syngenta or are used with permission.

Isocycloseram is not yet registered for sale or use in the U.S. and is not being offered for sale.

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There are very few constants in farming, especially when it comes to planting. Soil temperature, moisture and disease are just a few variables that influence planting timing. Proper planning prepares you to take advantage of best-case timing and overcome worst-case scenarios.

Planting Prep Tip #1: Assess the Soil

Soil conditions are an important guide to planting preparations. Soil testing is a great and inexpensive first step as the results can eliminate surprises, like pH fluctuations, and indicate important nutrient levels, like phosphorus and potassium. These results help make economical fertilizer choices. Maximize the accuracy of the test results by choosing a reputable soil analysis laboratory and utilizing resources like the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s guide to interpreting soil test results.

While sampling, take note of soil moisture in your fields. It’s tempting to start planting or tilling early despite soil moisture, but working soil that is too wet can lead to compaction and season-long consequences including:

  • Reduced plant stands caused by hindered root penetration and growth.
  • Increased runoff caused by decreased water infiltration.
  • Decreased nutrient use efficiency caused by limited nutrient movement in the soil.

Moist soils also provide a favorable environment to soilborne pathogens including Pythium and Phytophthora. These pathogens can cause seed rot, root rot, damping off and seedling blight, negatively impacting emergence, stand establishment and plant vigor. Seed treatments like CruiserMaxx® APX can help protect crops from these early-season diseases, while also enhancing root health and plant vigor for a faster, stronger, more uniform emergence.

Planting in dry conditions poses a different set of challenges. Inadequate or uneven soil moisture inhibits germination and prevents uniform stands, especially in corn. A deeper planting depth can help increase seed-to-soil contact and moisture uptake for a better stand once the soil warms up. Keep an eye on resources like the U.S. Drought Monitor for regional updates and adjust planting depth accordingly. In very dry or high-residue systems, planting deeper is less risky than hoping for rain.

Similarly, pay attention to the temperature forecast. Even if you plant in warm enough soils, temperature drops within the first two days of planting can delay germination and leave seeds more susceptible to disease. However, waiting too long to plant gives weeds an advantage.

Planting Prep Tip #2: Think About Timing

Although early planting may be advantageous for yield potential, planting too early can also be detrimental to your crops and bottom line. Planting occurs as early as March in the South and all the way through May in the upper Midwest. Regardless of your region, decide on planting timing by evaluating soil temperature and moisture — no matter what date the calendar says.

Corn Best Practices

Plant corn when soil temperature reaches a minimum of 50° F. When soil moisture is high, a planting depth of 1.5 to 2 inches is appropriate. In drier soils, plant deeper at 2.5 to 3 inches. Avoid planting depths of less than 1.5 inches to prevent root lodging.

Soybean Best Practices

Plant soybeans when the soil temperature reaches a minimum of 55° F at a depth of around 1 to 1.75 inches and no deeper than 2.5 inches. Planting soybeans too deep wastes energy and may inhibit emergence, especially under stressful or compacted conditions.

For both corn and soybeans, wait to plant until you expect the minimum temperature to be maintained for at least two days after planting, after which the risk of chilling is reduced.

Planting Prep Tip #3: Evaluate Weed Management Plans

Early-season weeds can significantly hinder crop growth, development and yield potential by stealing necessary nutrients and water. Before planting, reevaluate your existing weed management plan. Identify successes and setbacks, historical weed pressure and soil conditions, like flooding, that may have introduced new weed seeds.

A full label rate of a proven preemergence corn herbicide like Acuron® with multiple effective sites of action and strong residual control can help you start with a clean slate. Reach out to experts like your local Syngenta representative or retailer to troubleshoot your existing plan and adjust accordingly. Take this opportunity to ask questions and determine whether the fields have dried down enough to apply preemergence herbicides.

If you didn’t get to it after harvest, carve out some time to clean out your equipment. Weed seeds are notoriously hardy and any stowaways in your equipment can easily reenter the seed bed during planting. Try to accomplish this alongside your regular safety inspections before your anticipated planting window to ensure you are ready to go when the conditions are right.

Whether you choose to plant early or delay planting, waiting for optimal soil conditions often pays off in the long run. In the meantime, take stock of your soil conditions, prepare your equipment, and get in touch with trusted advisors to finalize your planting preparations.

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