Bayer, Monsanto Announce Seed Deal
31 August 2010 Bayer CropScience LP and Monsanto Co. have entered into an exclusive agreement on the use of Poncho/VOTiVO seed treatment, which will be offered exclusively with Acceleron Seed Treatment Products for corn.
Bayer data shows that the 500 rate of Poncho delivers increased control of wireworm, black cutworm, white grub and other early season pests. And four years of field research shows that Poncho/VOTiVO delivers an average 6 to 8 bushels per acre yield increase on corn over the industry standard, the 250 rate of Poncho, according to a press release by the companies.
“We look forward to this opportunity to provide growers with advanced technology that combines Bayer CropScience innovation in seed treatment with Monsanto innovation in seed,” Bayer CropScience President and CEO Bill Buckner said in the prepared statement. “This combination will help ensure that corn growers can have the best protection against yield-robbing nematodes and early season insects.”
“Early season pests can have a major impact on a corn crop’s growth and development. That’s where Acceleron Seed Treatment Products come into play,” Monsanto global seed lead Brad Griffith said in the press release. “Farmers will have a choice that includes this innovative nematode control technology when they choose Genuity traits optimized with Acceleron.”
New Poncho/VOTiVO provides a biological mode of action that introduces a revolutionary way to protect corn seedlings and roots against nematodes. It contains bacteria that live and grow with young corn roots, protecting against a broad range of nematodes that feed on corn.
Under the agreement, Monsanto will have exclusive rights to commercialize Poncho/VOTiVO with the 500 rate of Poncho under its industry-leading corn brand DEKALB, the Channel, brand and regional brands, as well as to license the product through its licensing business, which serves more than 180 corn seed companies throughout the United States and Canada. Additional details of the agreement were not disclosed.
Orders for Acceleron Seed Treatment Products, including Poncho/VOTiVO are being taken now for the 2011 growing season in the US.
Get The Newsletter Today!
