New insect control solution for S Africa’s maize farmers

A herbicide-resistant seed trait that is designed to help protect crops from damaging above-ground insects, such as the maize stalk borer and spotted maize stem borer, has been introduced to South African maize farmers.

Corteva Agriscience seed brands Pannar and Pioneer are offering its PowerCore technology as part of its high-yielding genetics portfolio.

“Not only have local trials demonstrated the efficacy of PowerCore technology, but the trait also has a proven track record in similar climates in both Brazil and Argentina, where it has been successfully used since 2012. We are extremely proud to share the latest advancement in Corteva Agriscience’s innovative pest control solutions with in-country farmers, to help them address one of the largest problems they face on a daily basis,” says Corteva Agriscience business director Tony Esmeraldo.

The technology uses combined modes of action to help combat primary and secondary pests that can cause significant crop damage and subsequent production losses. The trait comprises three different Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins each targeting insects differently, while helping to prolong the durability of the technology.

“Farmers have another option in the fight against insect damage and can now decide which Bt trait technology best suits their farms, depending on field history and agronomic conditions. Our overall aim is to ensure that farmers have access to better technology to get the most of out of every hectare of maize,” adds Esmeraldo.

Corteva Agriscience has a network of research facilities and testing locations spanning the continent, focused on new product development across multiple crops, including soybean and maize trait portfolios in South Africa.