Syngenta celebrates 40 years of Seedcare innovation

Growers rely on seed treatments to prepare for each season’s unique challenges. In an effort to meet this need, Syngenta and its legacy companies have been at the forefront of seed treatment research for 40 years. Since the introduction of Concep®, the first sorghum seed safener, in 1979, the company has developed novel active ingredients and crop-specific seed treatment recipes across all major crops.

“Helping growers protect their seed investment has always been one of our core goals,” said Ross Weikel, head of Syngenta Seedcare. “Each year, we look for new, innovative ways to help crops get a healthy start. And with four decades of experience, we’re never short on thoughtful solutions.”

This year, that history of innovation has continued with the EPA registration of Saltro® fungicide seed treatment, which offers protection against sudden death syndrome and nematodes. It is the latest in a long line of research-driven solutions. In 1982, Apron®, the first seed treatment fungicide to offer protection against downy mildew, entered the market. Eleven years later, the company introduced Maxim® seed treatment fungicide, the first seed treatment to be labeled “reduced-risk” by the EPA. Syngenta also developed Avicta®, the first seed treatment nematicide, in 2006. The company is not showing any signs of stopping either.


“Even in times of lower commodity prices, seed treatments still have a high potential return on investment, especially with early planting,” Weikel said. “From diseases and insect pests to unpredictable weather, growers don’t know what challenges they’re going to face during the growing season. We’re providing solutions that can help, no matter the situation.”

With its industry-leading portfolio, product development and support capabilities, Syngenta Seedcare always puts customers first. “We offer a three-pillar approach around product, application and service,” said Ravi Ramachandran, Ph.D., head of the Syngenta North America Seedcare Institute in Stanton, Minnesota. “We’re the only company offering this level of service to our customers.”