Syngenta Virtako Insecticide (Thiamethoxam + Chlorantraniliprole)
The Ultimate Dual-Action Granule for Stem Borer Control & Plant Vigor
Syngenta Virtako® is a world-class granular insecticide designed to protect Rice (Paddy), Corn, and Sugarcane. By combining two powerful active ingredients, it creates a "double shield" against tough pests like Stem Borers and Leaf Folders.
Best For: Farmers looking for a labor-saving "broadcast" solution that not only kills pests but also boosts root growth and crop greenness (the "Vigor Effect").
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Rapid Action: Pests stop feeding within minutes of ingestion, preventing "Dead Hearts" and "White Ears" immediately.
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Dual Protection: Controls both chewing pests (Borers) and sucking pests (Hoppers) simultaneously.
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Long-Lasting Result: Systemic activity provides residual protection for up to 30 days, reducing the need for multiple sprays.
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Easy Application: Granular formulation (GR) allows for easy broadcasting with sand or fertilizer—no pumps or spraying required.
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The "Vigor Effect": Stimulates root development and keeps leaves greener, resulting in higher yields even in low pest pressure.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Virtako® |
| Technical Name | Thiamethoxam 1% + Chlorantraniliprole 0.5% GR |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 4A (Neonicotinoid) + Group 28 (Diamide) |
| Chemical Group | Neonicotinoids & Anthranilic Diamides |
| Formulation | Granule (GR) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Virtako uses a "Twin Power" mechanism to attack insects on two fronts: their nerves and their muscles.
- Nerve Attack (Thiamethoxam): It enters the pest's system and over-stimulates the nerves (acting as an agonist to Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors). This causes uncontrollable tremors and eventual failure of the nervous system.
- Muscle Paralysis (Chlorantraniliprole): It targets the Ryanodine Receptors (RyR) in the muscles, forcing all stored calcium to leak out. This causes instant muscle paralysis.
- Feeding Cessation: The paralyzed pest stops eating immediately. It cannot bore into the stem or fold leaves, and it dies of starvation within 1-3 days.
Because it moves systematically (from roots to shoots), it protects new leaves that grow after application.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Rice (Paddy) | Yellow Stem Borer, Leaf Folder, Green Leafhopper, Brown Planthopper (Suppression) |
| Corn (Maize) | Maize Stem Borer, Fall Armyworm |
| Sugarcane | Early Shoot Borer |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rice | 2.5 kg (Granules) | Maintain Standing Water | N/A (Broadcast) | 30 Days |
| Corn / Maize | 2.5 kg (Granules) | Whorl Application | N/A (Broadcast) | 30 Days |
| Sugarcane | 4.0 kg (Granules) | Soil Application | N/A (Broadcast) | 30+ Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply 20-30 Days After Transplanting (DAT) for Rice. For Corn, apply 15-20 Days After Sowing (DAS) for best results.
- Mixing: Since 2.5 kg is a small amount for an acre, mix the granules with 7-10 kg of dry sand or Urea fertilizer to ensure even spreading across the field.
- Coverage: For Rice, maintain 2-3 inches of standing water in the field. Do not drain the water for 48-72 hours after application to allow the roots to absorb the medicine.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Virtako control Brown Planthopper (BPH)?
Virtako helps suppress BPH populations due to its Thiamethoxam content, but it is primarily a specialist for Stem Borers and Leaf Folders. For severe BPH outbreaks, specific BPH-targeted chemistry may be needed.
2. Can I mix Virtako with Urea?
Yes, farmers commonly mix Virtako granules with Urea or Sand to bulk up the volume for easier manual broadcasting.
3. What is the main advantage of using granules over sprays?
Granules save significant labor. You can apply them alone or with fertilizer, eliminating the need for hiring labor for knapsack spraying. It also ensures systemic uptake through the roots.
4. What is the "Vigor Effect"?
Virtako stimulates the plant's stress-defense proteins. This results in stronger roots, greener leaves, and better tillering, which can increase yield even if pest pressure is low.
5. Is Virtako safe for fish?
No, the active ingredient Chlorantraniliprole is toxic to aquatic invertebrates. Do not let treated paddy water drain immediately into natural fish ponds or waterways.
Safety & Disclaimer
Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label. The information provided here is for guidance only. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) during application.
