Registered Insecticides for Yellow Sugarcane Aphid (YSA) Management
This guide provides approved insecticide options and application rates for the management of Yellow Sugarcane Aphid (YSA) in sugarcane in the Zimbabwe Sugar Industry. These recommendations are intended to support informed decision-making by growers and extension staff and should be used as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach.
Foliar Applications
(For active YSA infestations)
The following products are recommended for use when YSA populations have reached the 20 % threshold levels:
- Allice 20 SP (Polachem)
Active ingredient: Acetamiprid
Application rate: 1.5 kg/ha - Deltamethrin 2.5 EC (Agricura)
Active ingredient: Deltamethrin
Application rate: 125 ml/ha - Pirimor 50 WG (Syngenta)
Active ingredient: Pirimicarb
Application rate: 300 g/ha
Good spray coverage is essential for effective control. Applications should be made using calibrated equipment and clean water.
Soil-Applied Options
(Ideally applied at planting or in ratoon cane)
Soil-applied insecticides may be used early in the crop cycle or in situations where preventive management is justified i.e. the late season crop that normally comes up surrounded by YSA pressure:
- Actara® 25WG/ Thiamethoxam 25WG (Agricura) / Thiara 25WG
Active ingredient: Thiamethoxam
Application rate: 870 g/ha
- Imidacloprid 35SC (Agricura)
Active ingredient: Imidacloprid
Application rate: 1 litre/ha
Soil applications should be timed to coincide with early crop establishment to maximise uptake and protection.
⚠️ Important Use and Safety Reminders
- All insecticides must be applied strictly according to label instructions.
- Where label guidance is unclear, growers are strongly encouraged to contact the Experiment Station for clarification before application.
- Spray decisions must always be based on field scouting results and pest pressure.
- Apply only at recommended rates and ensure correct sprayer calibration.
- Rotate insecticides with different modes of action to minimise the risk of resistance development.
- Avoid the use of unregistered or unverified products.
