New T2 fungicide Aviator²³⁵Xpro (prothioconazole + bixafen) has just gained approval from CRD (Chemicals Regulation Directorate) for a label claim for yield increases from 'crop greening' effects.

The revised label states; 'Aviator²³⁵Xpro can increase chlorophyll content/photosynthesis in treated plants, and extend duration of green leaf area retention, for yield increases above that resulting from disease control alone'.

Naturally campaign manager Dr Alison Daniels is delighted: "Despite four very contrasting seasons, starting with the high pressure Septoria year of 2008, to last year's particularly low disease season, we've seen consistent yield increases of around 0.5 t/ha from Aviator²³⁵Xpro over epoxiconazole + strob or boscalid.  Equally, more recently, we have seen similar yield increases over isopyrazam based flag leaf sprays. The non-disease benefits certainly helped to support positive yield responses in crops where disease was negligible at T2.  

"This label revision is confirmation that Xpro fungicides have significant physiological benefits in winter wheat, helping growers achieve optimum yield and revenue potential from their crops whatever the season," she says.

Dr Daniels adds that she believes the Leafshield formulation system in Aviator²³⁵Xpro also makes bixafen and prothioconazole more "biologically available" for crop greening effects. "Trials have indicated that these effects may derive from improved water use, as well as a greater ability to utilise nitrogen more efficiently," she concludes.