Above ground, three modes of action help control pests like European corn borer, fall armyworm and western bean cutworm.
Under the soil, two modes of action, including the RNAi, protects the corn from corn rootworm pressure.
When an insect takes a bite of the root underground, the RNAi kicks in to control the pest.
“It interferes with the protein synthesis in the insect’s digestive system, preventing the insect from creating life-essential proteins and causing mortality after ingestion,” Bryson said.
When left untreated, insects like corn rootworm can reduce yields by almost 50 per cent.
Bayer’s trials show VT4PRO can provide high levels of protection compared to other products on the market, Bryson said.
VT4PRO also contains Roundup Ready 2 Technology to help the plant withstand glyphosate treatments.
VT4PRO will be available for farmers in Ontario and across Eastern Canada for the 2025 growing season.
Interested producers are encouraged to contact their local Bayer rep to learn more, or visit Bayer’s website.