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Over 80% of the cotton grown in Australia in 2008 / 09 was Bollgard II®, demonstrating the technology is delivering significant benefits to our customer, the grower.
Figure 1. No of Insecticide applications for Helicoverpa spp. control (2001-2007)
Source: Monsanto Australia
Controls Helicoverpa with the least number of sprays:
- Commercial evaluation data collected over 200 sites from 2002 to 2007 indicated that, on average, there were 8.45 applications targeting Helicoverpa in conventional crops compared to 0.34 in Bollgard II fields
- Fewer sprays means time savings; there is less time spent setting up equipment, scouting, making spray decisions or managing spray contractors
The safest way to control Helicoverpa
- Since 2001 the average number of insecticide applications in Bollgard II crops has been 2.85 compared with 9.6 sprays in conventional crops
- There has been a reduction in OH&S concerns associated with handling dangerous chemicals, therefore providing a safer environment for farming families and workers
- Bollgard II has meant cotton can now be grown in areas where, due to high levels of Helicoverpa, it was previously not.
Bollgard II is the most cost effective way to control Helicoverpa
- It reduces the variability in insect control costs allowing less budgeting risk associated with “blow outs”
- Monsanto’s Late Crop Removal terms and extended payment terms give growers greater security
The built in technology controls a wide range of insect pests.
Bollgard II provides control of a wide range of Lepidopteran species listed below.
| Control |
|---|
| Helicoverpa armigera |
| Helicoverpa puntigera |
| Cotton Looper |
| Tip Worm |
| Rough Bollworm |
| Pink Bollworm |
| Armyworm |
Environmentally sustainable approach to growing cotton:
- The average insecticide usage is 18.7 litres in conventional versus 2.6 litres in Bollgard II. This equates to an 86% reduction
- Reduced pesticide drift which allows an increase in the area of cotton grown
- A dramatic reduction in the potential for contamination of riverine and soil environments.
Provides a stable platform for Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
- Reduced disruptive pesticides have meant better management and survival of beneficial insects
- The minimal impact on beneficial insects has allowed greater natural control of some secondary pests such as mites and aphids
- Bollgard II provides long term resistance protection with its two different modes of action
