Increased protection, better value: Axcela slug and snail bait
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NO-TILL farming has transformed broadacre agriculture by improving moisture retention, encouraging beneficial insects and increasing organic matter, while reducing erosion.
However, while it offers many benefits, it also creates favourable conditions for slugs and snails.
Rising pest numbers and their spread since the end of intensive cultivation have made pest control a key part of planning for farmers and agronomists, with baiting now the standard method to protect crops.
Farmers have a range of baits available but understanding the difference between brands and bait types can be confusing — the wrong choice can cost you a lot of money in lost yield or grain cleaning costs.
Ian Boothey of Agspec says short-window baits are the most commonly used products.
These are typically bran-based pellets coated with molluscicide and provide only short-term control, particularly in wet conditions.
In comparison, long-window baits are designed to deliver longer protection due to their ability to endure tough weather.
Mr Boothey says Axcela by Agspec delivers outstanding protection for far longer.
“Axcela by Agspec is a game-changing solution that withstands weeks of adverse weather whilst giving unparalleled protection to crops,” Mr Boothey says.
“Axcela’s unique gelatinous matrix outperforms competitors in benchmarks such as spreading ballistics, bait durability and ensuring rapid feeding when minimal moisture is present.”
Molluscs require very little moisture to become active in autumn and Axcela only requires heavy dew to soften to a paste-like texture to encourage rapid uptake.
“This feature, matched with high palatability ensures super-fast control,” Mr Boothey says.
“Additionally, when Axcela pellets contact moisture, they double in size which presents another 80 per cent of bait to pests — a huge benefit when numbers are high.”
Agspec introduced Axcela during successive seasons of unprecedented snail and slug pressure.
“Axcela’s performance since has delighted farmers, agronomists and contractors with its speed and level of control,” he says.
“They especially value the extended window of protection offered by Axcela — the unsurpassed bait longevity gives farmers peace of mind when crops are vulnerable.
“This early growth phase is where yield is largely dictated, and slug or snail damage often means a less-than-ideal finish and poorer harvest.
“When you calculate the daily cost of protection over the Axcela ‘window’ and compare it to competitors, no other bait comes close in either cost efficiency or level of control.
“Add Axcela to your program and you’ll spend a lot less time and money baiting crops.”
Axcela is available now from your local rural reseller.
For more information, contact Ian Boothey on 0484 234 973.
