2015 ASA trials for Valent Fierce XLT herbicide show positive results from growers

Date:02-03-2016

Valent U.S.A. Corporation recently announced that new Fierce® XLT Soybean Herbicide ranks in the top tier among growers for length of residual control and performance, according to the widespread demo program completed in 2015 through a partnership with the American Soybean Association (ASA).

Fierce XLT Soybean Herbicide, which first launched for the 2014 growing season, is a broad spectrum preemergence soybean herbicide that offers the longest lasting residual control of tough and resistant broadleaf weeds and grasses. By using Fierce XLT, growers can extend their application window, better manage workload and improve overall weed control.

A select group of growers from the ASA performed trials with Fierce XLT in 2015, testing against their standard herbicide programs. The results of the Fierce XLT trial program proved positive for Midwest growers looking for a new solution to combat tough and resistant weeds:

    • 90 percent overall grower satisfaction
    • 90 percent grower satisfaction with the extended length of residual control
    • 93 percent grower rating of Fierce XLT at or above standard herbicide program
    • 29 percent reduction in weed escapes with Fierce XLT as compared to the competitive products tested

John Pawlak, senior manager of product development for Valent, worked closely with over 90 growers who participated in the Fierce XLT program last summer.

"The growers who worked with us faced some tough weed challenges this past growing season, including Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, common ragweed and giant ragweed," Pawlak said. "The excellent preemergence weed control of Fierce XLT provided growers with a longer window to apply postemergence herbicides later in the season. It was rewarding to connect with Midwest growers and experience firsthand the results of three effective modes of action on soybean yields."

The ASA/Fierce XLT Field Trial Program evaluated how the application of Fierce XLT as part of a preplant burndown program or as a preemergence application can increase yield potential by providing greater control of ragweed, waterhemp and Palmer. The program gave growers an opportunity to address weed resistance challenges and advance soybean yields while using Fierce XLT—a new, highly active soybean herbicide from Valent. The ASA enrolled 93 member growers from Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and Ohio to participate in the program during the 2015 growing season. Results from the trial program show that more than 70 percent of growers will likely make Fierce XLT a permanent foundation of their residual program in 2016.

"Valent was eager to work with the ASA for this program, as their growers are leaders in the agricultural industry," said Jeffrey D. Smith, industry affairs manager at Valent. "Their feedback is valuable as we continue to develop effective herbicide solutions that help growers better manage weeds in their fields."