Transform WG receives emergency OK for sorghum in nine states

Transform WG Insecticide can now treat sorghum in nine more states under Section 18 emergency use exemptions granted in May.

Growers in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Tennessee can now use Transform WG against sugarcane aphids.

“Sugarcane aphids continue to be a problem and sorghum growers in affected states need an effective control option like Transform to combat this devastating pest,” Dow AgroSciences product manager Todd Pilcher said.

Sugarcane aphids began to be a problem in 2013, especially in Texas and Louisiana. They feed on plant sap, causing the plant to turn purple and yellow which reduces yield. It also damages combines by producing a sticky honeydew on leaves and stalks.

“Sugarcane aphids multiply quickly so we need to scout early and often. Early applications of an insecticide with a unique mode of action will help keep those populations in check,” Robert Bowling, an AgriLife Extension entomology specialist at Texas A&M, said. “Not only does Transform insecticide provide control of sugarcane aphids, but its unique chemistry gives growers an effective resistance management tool as well.”

Growers should consult individual state Section 18 labels for application guidelines and limitations.