Brazil sugarcane sector adopts new herbicide and pest management

The Brazilian sugarcane sector is adopting new technologies and management strategies to combat productivity losses caused by weeds and pests. Syngenta has launched CRESTIVO®, a new herbicide registered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. The product is designed to control both narrow-leaf and broad-leaf weeds, such as various grasses and Merremias, offering a long residual effect to reduce the need for multiple applications.

Simultaneously, producers are addressing the threat of the sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis), a pest that causes significant economic damage. Estimates suggest losses can reach R$ 5 billion per harvest. The pest reduces yield and compromises raw material quality by facilitating the entry of pathogens like Fusarium and Colletotrichum falcatum. Experts emphasize that continuous monitoring is essential, as the pest becomes difficult to control once it enters the sugarcane stalks.