This tool helps control insects above and below the soil
Bayer is bringing a new tool to corn growers across Eastern Canada in time for the 2025 growing season.
The VT4PRO corn trait with RNAi Technology combines multiple modes of action to control insects.
“It brings together a couple different things we’ve been talking about,” Bryan Bryson, traits and licensing campaign manager with Bayer Crop Science, told Farms.com. “We’ve got it positioned for fields that have a medium or moderate risk in terms of presence of rootworm positioning, so more of a broad-acre fit.”
VT4PRO combines multiple modes of action like those found in Trecepta and SmartStax PRO, along with RNAi Technology at the Bt protein.
Above ground, three modes of action help control pests like European corn borer, fall armyworm and western bean cutworm.
Under the soil, two modes of action, including the RNAi, protects the corn from corn rootworm pressure.
When an insect takes a bite of the root underground, the RNAi kicks in to control the pest.
“It interferes with the protein synthesis in the insect’s digestive system, preventing the insect from creating life-essential proteins and causing mortality after ingestion,” Bryson said.
When left untreated, insects like corn rootworm can reduce yields by almost 50 per cent.
Bayer’s trials show VT4PRO can provide high levels of protection compared to other products on the market, Bryson said.
VT4PRO also contains Roundup Ready 2 Technology to help the plant withstand glyphosate treatments.
VT4PRO will be available for farmers in Ontario and across Eastern Canada for the 2025 growing season.
Interested producers are encouraged to contact their local Bayer rep to learn more, or visit Bayer’s website.