Corteva Agriscience announced on May 13 the U.S. launch of Verpixo fungicide, a new product designed to address Cercospora leaf spot in sugarbeets.
The company said that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has registered Verpixo for use during the 2026 growing season and that it features Adavelt active, which is designated by the agency as a reduced-risk chemistry.
Verpixo introduces a Fungicide Resistance Action Committee Group 21 mode of action to sugarbeet production. The active ingredient is derived from a naturally occurring compound found in soil bacteria and provides broad-spectrum control along with application flexibility for growers. Cercospora leaf spot is described as one of the most economically damaging fungal diseases affecting U.S. sugarbeet crops, with potential economic losses exceeding $900 million during the 2024 production year if not managed, according to Corteva.
“Extensive lab and in-field testing confirm the efficacy of Verpixo fungicide with Adavelt active against CLS, which can cause up to 30% annual yield loss,” said Colleen Kent, specialty crops portfolio marketing lead with Corteva.
The disease causes brown spots on leaves that limit photosynthesis and reduce both sugar content and root weight. Because Cercospora leaf spot can produce spores multiple times per season, continued management is necessary. Current treatments have seen declining effectiveness due to resistance issues; however, Verpixo uses translaminar movement to protect both sides of leaves.
“Verpixo fungicide with Adavelt active has no known resistance, making it ideally suited for resistance management programs,” Kent said.
Corteva stated that because its main ingredient comes from natural sources and has an environmental profile compatible with Integrated Pest Management programs, beneficial insects are able to thrive while fungal pathogens are controlled.
AgWeb authors publications on topics ranging from commodity markets to farm leadership strategies and aims to supply farmers with essential news and educational resources through extensive online content and features; it also functions as a subsidiary of Farm Journal according to the official website.
