EPA Grants Approval to BASF's Surtain Herbicide

Introduced to the agricultural market in the spring of 2023, BASF's Surtain herbicide represents a pivotal advancement in weed control technology. This milestone achievement follows nearly a decade of meticulous development efforts since its inception in 2012, culminating in official approval for usage, pending final authorizations at the state level.

Primarily formulated for application in corn fields, Surtain distinguishes itself as a trailblazing product, leveraging solid-encapsulated herbicide technology. This groundbreaking innovation, as emphasized by BASF, not only upholds stringent crop safety standards but also ensures an extended residual efficacy against a broad spectrum of weeds. Central to its efficacy are two potent active ingredients: saflufenacil, categorized as a PPO inhibitor under Group 14, and pyroxasulfone, classified as a growth inhibitor within Group 15. Together, these components synergize to create a formidable defense against an extensive array of 79 broadleaf and grass weeds, including notorious species like Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, and giant ragweed.

The perpetual battle against weeds in corn fields exacts a significant financial toll on growers annually, exacerbated by the escalating prevalence of herbicide resistance. Surtain herbicide's distinctive formulation strategically targets weeds at their most vulnerable developmental stages, ensuring robust control even against the most resilient adversaries confronting modern corn cultivators. Its efficacy extends across a wide application window, spanning from pre-planting stages through the early post-emergence period. BASF underscores that Surtain serves as an all-encompassing solution, empowering users to streamline operations and enhance efficiency during the demanding spring season.

Furthermore, Surtain herbicide boasts exceptional compatibility with various tank mix components, including other herbicides, liquid fertilizers, adjuvants, and additives such as UAN (urea ammonium nitrate) and ATS (ammonium thiosulfate). This versatility further underscores Surtain's appeal as a versatile tool in the arsenal of corn herbicides. BASF emphasizes that with Surtain's exclusive solid encapsulation technology, growers can now access the benefits of PPO residual chemistry within the critical pre- or early post-application timeframe, a capability previously unavailable until now.

BASF's Surtain herbicide emerges as a transformative solution in the realm of weed management, offering a potent antidote to the evolving challenges faced by corn growers. Its approval signifies not merely a regulatory milestone but also a profound leap forward in agricultural innovation, promising heightened efficacy, safety, and operational efficiency for farmers striving to safeguard their crops against the relentless onslaught of weeds. With Surtain heralding a new era in weed control technology, the agricultural community can anticipate enhanced productivity and sustainability in corn cultivation practices.