Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How will Pfister Seeds SmartStax benefit growers? [back to top]

New Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids are built to take corn yield potential to the next level. Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids will consistently deliver higher yields through the broadest insect protection in the industry, the latest genetics and reduced refuge requirements. The ultimate benefit for growers is increased whole farm yields, which means greater profit potential. In addition, the multiple modes of action in SmartStax also will help maintain durability of Bt traits into the future.

Q: Who developed SmartStax? [back to top]

SmartStax was jointly developed by Dow AgroSciences and Monsanto to provide consistent, improved performance to growers. It’s another example of how Dow AgroSciences is committed to continuously developing scientific solutions for yield success. It also means you can count on Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids for the important combination of elite genetics and advanced technology from an agriculture leader.

Q: Which corn pests are controlled by Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids? [back to top]

Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids protect corn against the widest spectrum of above- and below-ground yield-robbing pests, including first- and second-generation European corn borer, southwestern corn borer, northern corn rootworm, western corn rootworm, Mexican corn rootworm, fall armyworm, western bean cutworm, black cutworm, corn earworm and sugarcane borer.

Q: Why do Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids require fewer refuge acres than conventional Bt hybrids? [back to top]

Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids produce multiple Bt proteins against key pests. This means insects are less likely to develop resistance to the trait combination, allowing growers to plant a reduced refuge of as little as 5 percent, depending on geography and local pest pressure. The protection provided by SmartStax is superior to first-generation single-mode-of-action traits that are currently on the market and require a greater number of refuge acres.

Q: Why is a refuge still necessary for Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids? [back to top]

Resistance management is essential to the sustainability of Bt crops. In the case of SmartStax, the refuge needs to be a non-Bt corn hybrid that ensures the continued production of a small but important population of Bt-susceptible insects. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has registered reduced refuge requirements for dual-effective dose Bt products compared with first-generation single trait Bt hybrids.

Q: Where can I buy Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids? [back to top]

To locate the closest sales representative, call Pfister Seeds at 1-888-647-3478 or use our Sales Rep Locator tool.

Q: What is meant by multiple modes of action? [back to top]

Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids feature multiple modes of action. That means multiple Bt proteins are expressed throughout the entire plant, providing whole-plant protection from yield-robbing pests. As an insect ingests these multiple modes of action, the proteins attack two different areas of its midgut. This reduces concerns about insect resistance and allows for reduced refuge requirements.

Q: What are the channeling requirements for Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids? [back to top]

As with any biotech traits, growers should be aware of and adhere to grain marketing requirements when planting Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids. The same European Union restrictions that apply to Herculex^® Insect Protection, YieldGard^®, Roundup Ready^® and LibertyLink^® technologies will apply to SmartStax. Growers should consult the National Corn Growers Association’s site for the most recent Know Before You Grow guidelines.

Q: How does Pfister Seeds SmartStax technology provide a yield advantage? [back to top]

New Pfister Seeds SmartStax hybrids will deliver increased yield through reduced refuge requirements and the broadest spectrum of insect control available. Plus, these hybrids contain the latest genetics and are rigorously tested to make sure they provide the high yields growers demand.

Q: How effective is the Pfister Seeds SmartStax technology? [back to top]

SmartStax will provide the broadest spectrum of control for pests that damage corn yields and reduce grower income. Field tests conducted by Dow AgroSciences researchers in 2007 and 2008 showed that SmartStax offers a greater level of insect protection versus single mode-of-action insect traits that are currently on the market, even under heavy pest pressure. View charts and additional data.