New potato insecticide and fungicide in the Bayer pipeline

Bayer CropScience will have two new products available for potato growers in two to three years' time, subject to approval.

Currently in the process of registration, the insecticide Movento (spirotetramat) and SDHI fungicide Luna (fluopyram) will offer UK potato growers different modes of action to incorporate into insect and blight control strategies, strengthening resistance management.

"Movento is a two-way systemic insecticide which has set the standard in the vegetable sector in the UK where it is already approved.

"Growers have been encouraged by its long-lasting efficacy against sucking insects such as aphids," said Albert Schirring, segment manager for potatoes and vegetables at Bayer CropScience.

It could also have the ability to suppress nematodes due to its movement within the plant, which would be of particular interest to potato growers, said Mr Schirring.

The addition of Luna to Bayer's potato portfolio will benefit UK potato growers by providing the improved control of alternaria that has already been shown in the US.

"It also has no cross-resistance issues with any of the other SDHI fungicides, so is a useful tool to protect the life of other products," he added.

Both products also have excellent environmental profiles and will fit into integrated strategies.