By Clint Thompson
Valent U.S.A. is offering a new insecticide that offers fast and long-lasting control of soft-bodied insects of vegetable and citrus crops.
This is the first year that producers will have access to Senstar Insecticide. It provides farmers with two effective modes of action for control of soft-bodied insects, including whiteflies, aphids, thrips and pysillids.
“Southeast vegetable and citrus growers have a new tool this year to protect their crops from damaging insect pests,” said Craig Campbell, regional Valent Field Market Development Specialist. “Senstar has two modes of action, and both have translaminar and systemic activity in the plant. That allows Senstar Insecticide to control all stages of the insect life cycle, providing powerful, long-lasting pest control.
“By controlling all the life cycle stages, including insect eggs, Senstar offers a unique benefit. It breaks down the insect population cycle, resulting in less potential for reinfestation. The growers see a lower pest count and better marketable yields.”
Senstar is very effective at reaching pests on the underside of the leaves, which are hard to reach with a spray. Its translaminar action means it can move up and down the leaves and manage those pests that feed on the underside.
Campbell said two sprays of Senstar are allowed through the season.
Pest Management is Key
Pest management in vegetables and citrus is extremely important for producers. Not only do they feed on the plants and the crops themselves, pests can transmit diseases that can be detrimental to the plant. Thrips can transmit tomato spotted wilt virus in tomatoes. Psyllids vector Huanglongbing (HLB) disease, also known as citrus greening disease.
“Growers know this very well. Virus diseases can take down a vegetable crop. That’s a serious problem every year,” Campbell said.
About Valent U.S.A.
Valent U.S.A. LLC, headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif., develops and markets products in the United States and Canada that advance sustainable agriculture, protect crops, enhance crop yields, improve food quality, beautify the environment and safeguard public health. Valent products include a well-known line of quality herbicide, insecticide, fungicide and plant growth regulator products for agricultural, seed protection and professional use. Valent is a leader in marketing and sales of both traditional chemical products and biorational products developed by its affiliate, Valent BioSciences LLC. For more information about Valent or our full product line, please call 800-6-VALENT (682-5368) or visit valent.com.