Protecting crops from Cutworm during establishment

Cutworm infestations during and after crop emergence can devastate newly established fields, leading to significant economic losses for farmers. 

“KARATE ZEON® insecticide, with its active ingredient lambda-cyhalothrin, stands out as a quality solution for cutworm control, offering multiple benefits when establishing Forage brassica, Fodder beet and Maize crops” says Paul Hassan, Syngenta NZ Technical Services Lead.

“KARATE ZEON® delivers rapid knockdown of cutworm populations, typically showing results within hours of application. This quick action is vital during crop emergence when young plants are most vulnerable to cutworm damage”.

The product's fast-acting nature helps prevent the characteristic cutting of stems at ground level, which can devastate a crop stand overnight.

KARATE ZEON® features unique capsule suspension (CS) formulation technology that results in strong adhesion to the target and residual control. 

The active ingredient is sealed in tiny, thin-walled capsules suspended in water and is released upon contact with the leaf surface or target pests. The microscopic capsules stick firmly to plant surfaces and release the active ingredient gradually, ensuring extended protection during the critical emergence period. 

The KARATE ZEON® capsules contain titanium dioxide in a polymer capsule wall. This offers powerful UV protection for longer lasting activity under typical New Zealand conditions.

From an environmental perspective, KARATE ZEON® requires a low application rate of 40 mL per hectare, reducing the environmental impact while maintaining high efficacy.

Safety for operators is also enhanced through the capsule suspension formulation, which reduces exposure risks during mixing and application. Conveniently, this product can be applied using either ground equipment or by aerial application.

KARATE ZEON® is also compatible with many other crop protection products, allowing for tank-mixing flexibility.

For optimal results, application timing should coincide with early signs of cutworm activity or preventatively at crop emergence, following local threshold guidelines and resistance management practices.

For more information on cutworm control contact your local Syngenta Territory Sales Manager or download the last forage brassica Technote.