Soybean and cotton producers who use a broadleaf herbicide that has been under the scrutiny of federal regulators the past two years has received the green light for the 2019 growing season.
On Oct. 31, the Environmental Protection Agency announced a continued registration, including label changes, for XtendiMax herbicide with VaporGrip technology, according to Bayer Crop Services, St. Louis, Missouri.
“Growers have indicated the need for this important tool, as a component of a complete weed management system, to fight tough-to-control needs. XtendiMax is highly effective, proven broadleaf weed control option that is delivering results for farmers, who have reported 95 percent weed control satisfaction over the last two seasons,” said Ryan Rubischko, Bayer’s dicamba portfolio lead. “This controlled registration, based on an extensive review, keeps this much-needed weed control tool in the hands of growers.”
Bayer is expecting 60 million acres of Roundup Ready 2 Xtend soybeans and cotton with XtendFlex Technology in 2019, an increase an increase from the more than 50 million acres for 2018, Rubischko said during a telephone press conference Nov. 1.
Among the highlights of the EPA issued label for XtendiMax, which remains a restricted use pesticide, the product is only approved for sale to and use by certified applicators. Annual mandatory applicator training and record keeping remain requirements.
Additional changes are included as outlined on the label. Bayer is planning a robust training program to educate certified applicators on the label requirements, Rubischko said. Information regarding training opportunities before the 2019 season will be available soon at RoundupReadyXtend.com/training.
Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or [email protected].
