Dow AgroSciences preview blackgrass herbicide at Cereals 2009

UK - June 11, 2009

Two potential new blackgrass treatments were on show on Dow AgroSciences’ Cereals 2009 stand.

Shown under the code name GF2010 and GF2070, the treatments are both based on the new molecule pyroxsulam – the main ingredient of the company’s BROADWAY* STAR – formulated to add residual activity to pyroxsulam’s contact action.

“The initial performance of Broadway Star in commercial use has been very encouraging. Now we want to establish options that will extend the molecule’s benefits to farmers facing the challenges of blackgrass,” says Dow AgroSciences marketing specialist James Knight.

The two formulations demonstrated at Cereals 2009 are designed for autumn use.

“All our trials with pyroxsulam show there is a large yield penalty to delaying any form of grass weed treatment,” says Mr Knight.

As well as blackgrass, the new formulations aim to control all the major grassweeds including ryegrasses, bromes and wild oats to levels at least equivalent to current standards. They will also provide improved rotational flexibility in terms of following crops and cultivations. In addition, innovative formulations will make the products convenient for farmers to use.

Approval for both products is being sought from the Chemicals Regulation Department of the Health and Safety Executive.