Dow AgroSciences announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted Section 18 emergency use exemptions in nine more states for the application of Transform WG insecticide for control of sugarcane aphids in sorghum. Texas recently received a Section 18 approval, and now Section 18 approvals have been issued in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Tennessee for 2016.

“Sugarcane aphids continue to be a problem and sorghum growers in affected states need an effective control option like Transform to combat this devastating pest,” says Todd Pilcher, product manager, Dow AgroSciences.

Sugarcane aphids first appeared in sorghum in 2013, mostly in Texas and Louisiana. Over the last two years the pest has spread across 14 states. Sugarcane aphids feed on plant sap, causing the foliage to turn purple and yellow, thereby reducing yield. The pest also produces a sticky honeydew that collects on leaves and stalks, creating reduced harvest efficiency and clogged combines.

“Sugarcane aphids multiply quickly so we need to scout early and often. Early applications of an insecticide with a unique mode of action will help keep those populations in check,” says Dr. Robert Bowling, AgriLife Extension entomology specialist at Texas A&M. “Not only does Transform insecticide provide control of sugarcane aphids, but its unique chemistry gives growers an effective resistance management tool as well.”

Refer to individual state Section 18 labels for complete application guidelines and limitations. Sorghum growers who would like to learn more about options for controlling this pest can watch the informational video “Gaining the Upper Hand Against Sugarcane Aphids” currently available at www.TransformMySorghum.com.