Syngenta launches Ference insecticide to control ABW

Logo: Ference

Syngenta has launched Ference insecticide to help superintendents systemically control annual bluegrass weevil (ABW) at all larval stages — one through five. Ference offers increased control of ABW through the enhanced Syngenta Optimum Control Strategy.

The active ingredient in Ference, cyantraniliprole, will control larvae inside the stem – first to second instar – and larvae outside the stem – third to fifth instar, according to the company. Because Ference controls all larval stages, it is well-suited to control the asynchronous summer populations. Ference is in the same class of chemistry found in Acelepryn insecticide and can stop damaging feeding of young larvae within minutes after ingestion of treated turf, according to Syngenta. It can be applied to all turfgrass areas on the golf course, including tee-box areas, roughs, fairways, greens and collars.

“The active ingredient in Ference provides a new, extremely effective management tool for superintendents dealing with ABW infestations, particularly when multiple generations, or asynchronous populations, are present,” says Dr. Mike Agnew, technical manager, Syngenta Turf and Landscape. “As insect resistance to pyrethroids continues to grow, we have to integrate alternative chemistries into our pest control strategies,” Agnew says.

Ference works in tandem with Acelepryn, Provaunt and Scimitar GC insecticides as part of the Syngenta Optimum Control Strategy. Weevil Trak and the Optimum Control Strategy are supported by seven independent entomologists and 38 key turfgrass consultants across the Northeast.

“Years of research show that adding Ference to our existing ABW program, the Optimum Control Strategy, will help  superintendents experience a new standard of season-long ABW control for the 2015 season,” says Bob Goglia, head of marketing, Syngenta Turf and Landscape. “Its ability to control such a broad range of ABW life stages creates tremendous flexibility so superintendents can follow WeevilTrak.com and be strategic about when to make applications,” says Goglia.