Syngenta’s Cruiser 5FS seed treatment against sugarcane aphid via Section 2(ee) label

Sugarcane aphid pressure in grain sorghum continues to grow across the South of America, and it’s important to implement proactive management practices as the planting season is arriving and then during the early growing season. Heavy sugarcane aphid infestations can reduce head emergence and kill young grain sorghum plants, leading to a complete loss of the crop.

Syngenta has come to the aid of sorghum growers by working through their Section 3 federal labeling to add sugarcane aphid control under a Section 2(ee) labeling for use of Cruiser 5FS seed treatment insecticide(Thiamethoxam) to protect against sugarcane aphid damage to sorghum in 17 states,US. Those contemplating the use of Cruiser 5FS should refer to the label for complete use instructions.

The 17 states where the Section 2(ee) labeling applies are Ala., Ark., Colo., Ga., Ill., Kan., La., Miss., Mo., N.C., Neb., N.M., Okla., S.C., S.D., Tenn., and Texas.

Syngenta representatives note that once the sorghum emerges, proper management of the sugarcane aphid should begin with routine scouting two or more times per week. According to the University of Arkansas, a foliar insecticide application is recommended once populations reach a level at which 25 percent of plants are infested with 50 or more sugarcane aphids per leaf. But treatment thresholds may vary by state, so ag retailers should check with their state Extension for the recommended treatment threshold in their area before making recommendations to growers.