Torac insecticide from Nichino America, Inc. has been granted a label expansion by the U.S. EPA allowing use in potatoes in states east of the Mississippi River. Previously restricted to states west of the Mississippi, this label now allows the product to be eligible for registration in all states.
Torac provides fast, broad-spectrum control of potato psyllid, Colorado potato beetle, aphids, leafhoppers and thrips. The active ingredient in Torac, tolfenpyrad, works by blocking cellular respiration and is effective on all life stages of the pest: eggs, nymphs and adults. Torac halts feeding damage immediately, thus controlling the pest usually within 24 to 48 hours. Torac belongs to the mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor (METI) class of compounds, IRAC group 21A insecticide. For effective resistance management, Torac should be used in rotation with insecticides of different modes of action.
Torac is a contact foliar insecticide, which means that sufficient spray coverage is essential. Nichino America recommends that Torac be used with a minimum water volume of 20 gallons per acre by ground and a minimum of 5 gallons per acre by air. Torac is also labeled for chemigation in potatoes; consult the product label for recommendations. Based on the label, potato growers can make two applications per crop cycle at a 14- to 21-fluid-ounce rate, depending on the pest. The label also states a 12- hour re-entry interval and a 14-day pre-harvest interval.
Use on potatoes is contingent on each state’s approval. For information on product registration in a specific state, contact your state’s pesticide regulatory agency.
Refer to your local Nichino America sales or product development representative for more information.