Free Bayer Program Helps Farmers Tackle Corn Rootworm Early
Bayer is stepping up efforts to help farmers guard their corn crops from corn rootworm with the 2025 edition of The Watch. This program provides practical solutions to fight one of the most destructive pests in U.S. corn farming.
The Watch offers a free Corn Rootworm Pressure Starter Kit until July 7, which includes sticky traps to monitor beetle activity. Farmers also receive expert insights, data updates, and educational tools to understand and manage corn rootworm.
“Corn rootworm is a yield-robbing pest that attacks at every stage of its life cycle — from larvae feeding on roots underground to adult beetles above ground,” said Safeer Hassan, Bayer technical product lead for corn traits.
Early detection is key, as there are no effective rescue treatments once the pest is active. Bayer’s program encourages farmers to track rootworm activity and adjust crop management strategies accordingly.
Farmers can also participate in Bayer’s #RootwormWatch contest by sharing a trap photo on Facebook or X by August 20. Tag @BayerTraits and include hashtags #RootwormWatch and #sweepstakes to enter for a chance to win a portable cooler.
Key dates:
For high rootworm pressure areas, Bayer recommends SmartStax® PRO, and for broader insect protection, VT4PRO™ with RNAi Technology offers an alternative.
Bayer’s goal is to help farmers make proactive, informed decisions that boost yield and sustainability. Learn more and join the initiative at traits.bayer.com/thewatch.
Photo Credit: Bayer Crop Science