Bayer introduces Nortica

Bayer Environmental Science (BES) professional products, a division of Bayer CropScience LP, has announced the development of its first natural product, Nortica. Nortica’s ability to protect turf roots allows the turf to generate greater root depth creating healthy turf and playable courses.

Nortica, which contains the bacteria Bacillus firmus, is used to help manage nematodes by creating a living barrier of protection around the root. In trials, research showed that Nortica consistently improved root growth, turf quality and turf density.

"We are excited to offer superintendents a new, effective way of approaching nematode management,” said Cynthia Gigandet, insecticide business manager, Bayer Environmental Science. “Not only does Nortica prevent and manage turf damage caused by parasitic nematodes, but it also offers turf the plant health benefits of a strong, deep root system.”

When temperature activated, the bacteria in Nortica colonize and grow around the root, coating it and preventing damage caused in the J2 larval stage of all major parasitic nematodes, including Sting, Lance, and Root-knot, as well as a myriad of others. With its natural composition and through multiple modes of action, Nortica provides consistent, long-lasting nematode protection, without requiring course closure or slit-injections. Instead of killing nematodes, Nortica acts as competition for access to plant roots and interrupts the signaling responses from plant exudates, while also having a negative effect on nematode eggs and J2 larvae.

"A product like Nortica has been missing from the market for years,” said Gigandet. “Finally, superintendents will be able to manage nematodes without the cost and inconvenience of slit-injections. But even better, Nortica gives superintendents the added benefits associated with healthier plants – less required water, fertilizer and labor.”

Nortica can be applied to Bermudagrass greens, tees, fairways and roughs. The best treatment timing is in the spring to protect expanding roots. For best results, Nortica should be applied when low temperatures reach 60 o F or higher for three consecutive days. Nortica is available in 35 lb. bags as a 5% wettable powder.