Early-season flea beetle feeding can escalate quickly, and even with a seed treatment in place, pressure can exceed expected levels under the right conditions.
When damage approaches threshold levels, growers have several management and support options available through both their seed treatment program and manufacturer warranties.
Understanding thresholds, scouting requirements, rebate eligibility, and claim procedures can help ensure a timely and effective response.
Management Options When Pressure Increases
If your seed treatment isn’t holding up under heavy flea beetle feeding, several management pathways are available depending on which seed treatment was used. In situations where 25% damage or more is present, growers may qualify for a rebate on the foliar insecticide applied to manage the issue.
BrettYoung Canola Seed Treatments and Warranty Coverage
The seed treatments listed below include rebate levels, spray-by timing, and key program deadlines connected to each offering.
| Seed Treatment | Product Rebate | Spray-by Timing | Final Program Submission Date | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matador® | Decis® | Matador® | Decis® | Matador® | Decis® |
| Prosper® Evergol® + BUTEO™ start | – | 100% | – | 4 leaf stage canola | June 30, 2021 |
| Helix® Vibrance® | 50% | – | 28 DAS | June 30, 2021 | |
| Helix® Vibrance® + Fortenza® Advanced | 100% | – | 35 DAS | July 7, 2021 |
DAS = Days after seeding
Support from Your Regional Account Manager
Your BrettYoung Regional Account Manager can help you navigate warranty options and identify what support applies to your seed treatment. Some early feeding is expected, since flea beetles must ingest the insecticide before control begins, so scouting and accurate assessment are encouraged before making application decisions.
Scouting for Flea Beetle Damage
When checking fields, keep the following considerations in mind:
- Flea beetles often start along field edges early in the season before moving inward. A W-shaped scouting pattern is recommended.
- 25% defoliation is the action threshold; 50% is the economic threshold. By the time spraying is possible, feeding may reach 50%.
- Windy conditions can push flea beetles to feed on stems, causing more rapid injury.
- Frequent scouting is essential to monitor changes in activity.
Always consult your retailer or crop advisor for guidance on spray timing. Additional information is available through the Canola Council on assessing flea beetle damage and feeding patterns.
Submitting a Seed Treatment Claim
If scouting shows damage near or above the 25% threshold, follow the appropriate contact pathway based on the seed treatment used.
Flea Beetle Damage Claims
- Helix® Vibrance® or Fortenza® Advanced: Call Syngenta at 87-SYNGENTA (877-964-3682)
- Prosper® Evergol® + BUTEO® start: Call Bayer at 844-250-9362
Cutworm Damage Claims
- Fortenza® or Fortenza® Advanced: Call Syngenta at 87-SYNGENTA (877-964-3682)
Program terms and conditions can be accessed through the Syngenta Seed Care Package or the Prosper Evergol/BUTEO start Assurance Program.
Trademark and Program Notes
Always read and follow pesticide label directions. Bayer, BUTEO®, Decis®, EverGol® and Prosper® are trademarks of Bayer Group. Helix® Vibrance®, Matador® and Fortenza® are trademarks of the Syngenta Group Company.
FAQ
How do I know if flea beetle feeding is approaching threshold?
If feeding reaches 25% damage, that is the action threshold where a foliar insecticide may be needed. 50% damage is considered the economic threshold. Scouting frequently is essential, especially along field edges where feeding often begins.
Where should I scout for flea beetle activity?
Start at field edges and move inward using a W-shaped pattern. Pay attention to stem feeding during windy conditions, as this can accelerate injury.
What should I do if my seed treatment isn’t holding up?
If damage is at or above threshold, you may be eligible for a rebate on a foliar application, depending on the seed treatment used. Contact information for the appropriate company support line is provided in the program details.
Who do I contact to start a warranty or damage claim?
Helix® Vibrance® or Fortenza® Advanced: Syngenta — 87-SYNGENTA (877-964-3682)
Prosper® EverGol® + BUTEO® start: Bayer — 844-250-9362
Cutworm issues with Fortenza® or Fortenza® Advanced: Syngenta — 87-SYNGENTA
What support can BrettYoung provide?
Your BrettYoung Regional Account Manager can help confirm damage levels, guide next steps, and walk through product-specific warranty processes.
