Bayer nematicide increases potato productivity by 7,3%

After years of investment in research and dozens of experimental trials in the Center-South region of Brazil, Bayer launches Verango Prime for the effective and long-term control of nematodes and Black Spot (Alternaria grandis) in potatoes. The product showed significant results in commercial crops with assisted sales, representing an increase of 7,3% in the average crop productivity, compared to the producer's standard treatment.

Nematodes are found in the soil and, when they attack the roots and aerial part of plants, they steal nutrients, which in addition to impacting crop productivity, can cause losses estimated at more than R＄ 35 billion according to a survey by the Brazilian Society of Nematology ( SBN). According to Fabio Maia, fruit and vegetable portfolio manager at Bayer, the most common in potato crops are the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne) and the root lesion nematode (Pratylenchus). “These parasites can impact up to 12% of crop profitability, which is why we are concerned with developing new tools to assist farmers in this challenge”, he reinforces.

As an alternative to this management, Verango Prime has a revolutionary technology, as it links productivity with sustainability. “Due to its mode of action, it protects plants from nematodes, in addition to being compatible with biological products and presenting less risk to the environment and operators. In other words, it helps the producer to carry out effective management in a more sustainable way”, highlights Maia.

The solution works to reduce the nematode between one and two hours, after the Fluopyram molecule (active ingredient of the product) comes into contact with or is ingested by the parasite, featuring a rapid shock effect. With this unique mode of action, there is a substantial reduction in the active population, which positively impacts management and increases productivity.

Furthermore, other strategies are important in managing infested areas, such as adequate fertilization and liming, the use of organic matter in planting and crop rotation. “These measures help with soil quality and make the plant more resistant to attack by these parasites, but chemical or biological nematicides are essential for management”, says the executive.

In addition to helping the producer with nematodes, the solution is also efficient in controlling Black Spot. The fungus, which depending on the incidence can make production unfeasible, causes damage to the leaves, reducing the vigor and productive potential of the crop. In the areas tested, Verango Prime also showed good results in controlling the disease and increased productivity by 4,6%. “The solution arrives to meet a latent need for farmers, linking innovation, sustainability and profitability”, concludes the fruit and vegetable portfolio manager at Bayer.