Growers Prefer Integrated Approach to Extend Life of CRW Traits
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Conditions such as mild winters and low moisture are making it likely that many growers should expect the recent rise in corn rootworm (CRW) pressure to continue into next season. For those with affected or at-risk fields, it could mean plants with damaged root systems, poor seed set and yield loss. That’s why a critical component of any management plan is using defensive CRW trait technology, and according to a recent poll by Pioneer, most growers prefer partnering traits with a combination of best management practices (BMPs) to help maximize and prolong the life of CRW trait technology.
Pioneer polled U.S. corn growers on Instagram and Twitter in late July, asking: “Which of these BMPs is most critical to extending the life of a CRW trait?” The responses from 907 growers had 51% answer “combination of practices,” 35% answer “crop rotation,” 7% answer “in-season insecticide,” and 7% answer “soil-applied insecticide.”
“Corn rootworms have proven over time to be very adaptive, and I'd say there's no magic bullet — there's no one trait that can eliminate this pest problem from your field,” said Matt Essick, Pioneer Agronomy Manager. “Trait effectiveness could be anywhere from three to five years to as long as 20 plus years. But if we also implement best management practices, our research shows that can extend the trait life by at least 30%, and up to 50%.”
According to Essick, the data supports growers choosing an integrated approach with multiple tactics to improve the durability and effectiveness of CRW products. Using crop rotation and/or in-season adult insecticides can reduce eggs in the soil for the following season. Altogether, it resets populations to the point where the pest can be managed, while helping to extending the life of today’s advanced CRW traits.
Essick also stresses the importance of accurate measurement of CRW pressure and shares three tips growers can use to identify the presence of corn rootworms, and then measure levels:
“It all comes back down to understanding what your pressure is and then using multiple methods to minimize build-up, followed by continuously evaluating your management practices over time,” Essick says.
Growers can collaborate with their local Pioneer agronomist to help scout fields and develop integrated management plans. More information on CRW trait technology, such as found in Pioneer® brand Qrome® products, is available on Pioneer.com or by contacting their local Pioneer sales representative.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: CORN ROOTWORM SCOUTING AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES.
About Pioneer
Pioneer, the flagship seed brand of Corteva Agriscience, is the world’s leading developer and supplier of advanced plant genetics, providing high-quality seeds to farmers in more than 90 countries. Pioneer provides agronomic support and services to help increase farmer productivity and profitability and strives to develop sustainable agricultural systems for people everywhere.
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About Corteva Agriscience
Corteva Agriscience is a publicly traded, global pure-play agriculture company that provides farmers around the world with the most complete portfolio in the industry - including a balanced and diverse mix of seed, crop protection and digital solutions focused on maximizing productivity to enhance yield and profitability. With some of the most recognized brands in agriculture and an industry-leading product and technology pipeline well positioned to drive growth, the company is committed to working with stakeholders throughout the food system as it fulfills its promise to enrich the lives of those who produce and those who consume, ensuring progress for generations to come. Corteva Agriscience became an independent public company on June 1, 2019 and was previously the Agriculture Division of DowDuPont. More information can be found at www.corteva.com.
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Media Contact:
Kacey Birchmier
kacey.birchmier@corteva.com
515-305-0085 cell
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