HELIGEN

Biological insecticide for the integrated control of 

Helicoverpa zea (corn earworm, cotton bollworm, tomato fruitworm) and 

Heliothis virescens (tobacco budworm) on specified food and non-food crops

Active Ingredient*:

Polyhedral occlusion bodies of Helicoverpa zea ABA-NPV-U 32.0%

Other Ingredients: 68.0%

Total: 100.0%

* Contains 7.5 x109 occlusion bodies per mL

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

CAUTION

See additional precautionary and first aid statements on the back panel

Net Contents: 0.25, 1, 2.5, 5 gallons

EPA Registration No: 87978-E

EPA Est. Number: 87978-AUS-01

Manufactured by:

8 Rocla Court

Glenvale

Queensland Australia 4350

Product of Australia

Batch code: ___________________
AgBiTech Pty Ltd 2 of 10 10 January 2014

PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS

HAZARDS TO HUMANS AND DOMESTIC ANIMALS

CAUTION

Causes moderate eye irritation. Avoid inhalation and contact with eyes, skin or clothing. Avoid 

breathing spray mist. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling and before eating, 

drinking, chewing gum, using tobacco, or using the toilet. Remove and wash contaminated 

clothing before reuse.

FIRST AID

If 

inhaled:

• Move person to fresh air.

• If person is not breathing, call 911 or an ambulance, then 

give artificial respiration, preferably mouth-to-mouth if 

possible.

• Call a poison control center or doctor for treatment advice.

HOT LINE NUMBER

Have the product container or label with you when calling a poison control 

center or doctor, or going for treatment. For emergency information 

concerning this product, call the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) 

at 1-800-858-7378 seven days a week, 6:30 am to 4:30 pm Pacific Time. 

During other times, call your poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Applicators and other handlers must wear:

• Long-sleeved shirt and long pants

• Waterproof gloves

• Shoes plus socks

Mixers/loaders and applicators must wear a dust/mist filtering respirator meeting NIOSH 

standards of at least N-95, R-95, or P-95. Repeated exposure to high concentrations of microbial 

proteins can cause allergic sensitization.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning/maintaining PPE. If no such instructions are 

available, use detergent and hot water for washables. Keep and wash PPE separately from other 

laundry.
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ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS 

For terrestrial uses, do not apply directly to water, or to areas where surface water is present or to 

intertidal areas below the mean high water mark.

Do not contaminate water when disposing of equipment wash waters or rinsate.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

It is a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling.

Do not use this product until you have read the entire label. Do not apply this product in a way 

that will contact workers or other persons, either directly or through drift. Only protected 

handlers may be in the area during application. For any requirement specific to your State and 

Tribe, consult the State or Tribal agency responsible for pesticide regulation.
AgBiTech Pty Ltd 4 of 10 10 January 2014

PRODUCT INFORMATION

This product contains a biological insecticide for the control of the following moth larvae on a 

wide range of crops:

Corn earworm Helicoverpa zea

Tobacco budworm Heliothis virescens

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

Heligen (Helivoverpa zea nucleopolyhedrovirus - HzNPV) is a highly specific naturally 

occurring pathogen of Helicoverpa spp. and Heliothis spp. The effectiveness of Heligen is 

dependent on a number of important factors; larval size, environmental conditions, application 

and the feeding behaviour of the pest. Because of the requirement for good conditions, the 

performance of Heligen is variable and at times, the level of control may be below expectations. 

The speed of activity of Heligen is also dependent on climatic conditions. Larvae can take up to 

8 days to die, though the level of damage by NPV infected larvae is greatly reduced within 1 to 3

days post infection, dependant on larvae size. Daytime temperatures of 75°F to 95°F are ideal 

for the activity of NPV. Infected larvae will amplify the virus, and following death will release 

large amounts of viral occlusion bodies that can result in ongoing larval control, particularly 

under environmental conditions suitable for NPV.

Good coverage of the feeding sites of the larvae is essential, as the product needs to be ingested 

to be effective. Heligen will not control larvae that do not feed on treated areas, including when 

larvae are feeding inside protected feeding sites such as cotton bolls, lettuce hearts, bean pods, 

corn ears and flowers.

Heligen should only be used to target 

larvae less than half an inch long (3rd

instar - 13 mm), though is most effective 

on larvae less than 0.3 of an inch (2nd

instar - 7 mm). Larvae at the higher end 

of the recommended size spectrum will 

take longer to die and cause more 

significant damage prior to death.

Good coverage plus targeting actively 

feeding larvae less than half and inch
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long are the key factors in ensuring maximum performance of Heligen. For this reason, apply 

Heligen to coincide with optimum environmental conditions for application and larval activity, 

such as periods of high humidity and warm (>65°F) conditions. Under sub-optimal conditions 

where application cannot be delayed, increasing application volume and droplet size can improve

performance.

USES

Heligen is only effective against larvae of Helicoverpa zea (corn earworm, cotton bollworm, 

tomato fruitworm) and Heliothis virescens (tobacco budworm). Thorough coverage of the crop 

is essential, as the nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) in Heligen must be ingested by larvae to be 

effective. NPV is most effective on smaller larvae. Target application when the majority of 

larvae are less than 0.3 inches in length (2nd instar). Heligen should not be used to control larvae 

larger than 0.5 inches in length (3rd instar). Heligen will provide between 60 and 90% control, 

with greater control expected on smaller larvae under ideal application conditions. Larvae will 

continue to feed for 1 to 3 days following virus infection. Larvae will take between 3 to 8 days 

to die, with slower control occurring with larger larvae and during cool conditions. Under high 

pest pressure or sub-optimal application conditions, or when immediate protection against 

damage is required, additional control options should be considered. Avoid applying Heligen if 

heavy rain is expected within 1 hour after application.
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CROPS, APPLICATION RATES AND CROP SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Crops Rate per acre Additional Information

Sorghum 0.7 to 1.4 fl. oz. Use lower rates when targeting larvae smaller than 

0.3 inches in length (1st and 2nd instar) and in 

mixtures with sprays for midge control (not ULV). 

Use higher rates when targeting larvae larger than 0.3 

inches in length (3rd instar) or under high pressure 

situations. Applications that are targeted when 50% 

of heads have reached 100% flowering are likely to 

provide good control.

Cereal Grains (Maize, Popcorn)

Alfalfa

Oilseed (Linseed, Peanut, Canola, 

Safflower, Sunflower)

Potatoes

Pulses (Azuki bean, Broad bean, 

Chickpeas, Cowpea, Faba bean, Field 

pea, Kidney bean, Lablab, Lentil, Lima 

bean, Lupin, Mung bean, Navy bean, 

Pigeon pea, Soybean, Vetch)

1.0 to 1.6 fl. oz. Use lower rates as a preventive measure in vegetative 

crop stages. Use the high rate when the pest 

population has reached economic threshold.

Cotton 2.0 fl. oz. High leaf pH in cotton causes rapid NPV 

deactivation, giving Heligen very short residual 

activity and resulting in highly variable performance 

in this crop. Heligen should not be solely relied upon 

when larvae numbers are above economic threshold 

in cotton.

Sweetcorn 1.2 to 2.4 fl. oz. Application should be made from the vegetative 

stages until silking. Applications during silking 

should employ a high rate and be in conjunction with 

other control measures. Application of low rates at 

regular (3 to 5 day) intervals, particularly via 

overhead irrigation water, is an effective strategy 

from early row tassel to silking.

Berryfruit (Blackberries, Blueberries, 

Boysenberry, Cranberry, Currants, 

Gooseberry, Raspberries, Strawberry)

Brassica vegetables (Broccoli, 

Brussels sprouts, Cabbages, 

Cauliflower, Chinese broccoli, 

Brassica leafy vegetables

Celery

Cucurbits (Cucumber, Melons, 

Pumpkins, Squash, Watermelon, 

Zucchini)

Fruiting vegetables (Eggplant, Chilli, 

Okra, Peppers, Tomato)

Leafy vegetables (Endive, Lettuce, 

Roquette, Silver beet, Spinach)

Legume vegetables (Green beans, 

Green peas, Snow peas, Sugar snap 

peas)

Ornamental flowers and plants

Pome fruit (Apples, Nashi, Pears)

1.2 to 2.4 fl. oz. Use a higher rate when flowers, fruit or economic 

parts of the crop are present, under high pest pressure 

conditions or to control larvae larger than 0.5 inches 

in length. Use lower rates during vegetative stages of 

crop production. Application of low rates at regular 

(3 to 5 day) intervals, particularly via overhead 

irrigation water, is an effective strategy in 

horticultural crops.
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MIXING GUIDLINES

Shake the container well before use. Spray water pH should be neutral (pH 7.0) – spray water 

pH above 8 may damage the virus and performance will be reduced. If needed, use a suitable 

buffer or acidifier. If mixing with other pesticides or foliar fertilizers in water, add Heligen to 

the spray tank after the other products are thoroughly diluted. Heligen should be applied as soon 

after mixing as possible. The virus in Heligen can be rendered inactive if the mixture is left to 

stand overnight.

Compatibility:

In water: Heligen is highly compatible with the majority of herbicides, insecticides fungicides 

and foliar fertilizers when mixed in water. Ensure that the mixture has a pH of 8 or less before 

adding Heligen as higher pH levels will damage the virus. 

In oil (ultra low volume): For ULV application in oil, Heligen is not compatible with other 

pesticides, since the undiluted solvents in these products can damage the virus.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use application parameters (nozzles, swath width, pressure, boom height, speed, etc) to ensure 

thorough coverage of the target area.

Horticultural crops:

Apply by ground rig or hand held equipment in a minimum of 40 gallons of water per acre.

Field crops:

Ground Rig

Apply in a minimum of 10 gallons of water per acre.

Aerial – High Volume

Apply in a minimum of 3 gallons of water per acre. This application method is particularly 

susceptible to droplet evaporation, especially during hot and dry conditions (temperature greater 

than 85°F and relative humidity less than 40%). Droplet evaporation will reduce coverage, 

which can have a detrimental impact on performance. During hot and dry conditions avoid using 

this application method – wait until conditions favor good coverage or apply in ULV (see 

below). Alternatively, if application in water by air during hot and dry conditions cannot be 

avoided, increase application volume and/or use an anti-evaporation additive (such as an 

emulsifiable oil) to improve coverage.

Aerial – Low Volume (Sorghum Only)

Apply in a minimum of 1 gallon of water per acre and include an anti-evaporation additive (such 

as 2% emulsifiable oil).

Aerial – Ultra-Low Volume (ULV)

Use an approved oil carrier and apply in a minimum volume of 1 quart per acre using micronair 

nozzles . When applying Heligen in ULV, DO NOT tank mix with other pesticides or fertilisers 

(refer to Compatibility).
AgBiTech Pty Ltd 8 of 10 10 January 2014

Chemigation (via overhead irrigation water):

Heligen can be effectively applied to crops in overhead irrigation water. The product should be 

introduced to the irrigation water at the appropriate rate using fertigation / chemigation 

equipment. If the product is diluted in water prior to injection into the irrigation water, ensure 

that the dilution water is clean and not silty with a pH of 7 or less and ensure there is constant 

agitation. Preferably, rainwater should be used for dilution. Ensure any diluted Heligen is used 

within 10 hours of mixing.

For one-pass mobile irrigators (such as centre pivot, lateral move, end tow, side roll, traveler, big 

gun), continuously and evenly introduce the required quantity of Heligen into the irrigation water 

over the course of irrigation. It is recommended to apply Heligen in no more than 0.5 inches of 

irrigation water. For static irrigators (such as solid set or hand move), introduce the required 

amount of Heligen into the irrigation water just prior to completion of the irrigation period, to 

maximise the concentration of Heligen applied and the amount that remains on the crop. See the 

CHEMIGATION section (following) for additional information.

CHEMIGATION

General Requirements:

1) Apply this product only through sprinkler (including center pivot, lateral move, end tow, 

side (wheel) roll, traveler, big gun, solid set, or hand move) irrigation systems. Do not 

apply this product through any other type of irrigation system including drip (trickle) 

systems.

2) Reduced effectiveness can result from non-uniform distribution of treated water.

3) If you have questions about calibration, you should contact State Extension Service 

specialists, equipment manufacturers, or other experts.

4) Do not connect an irrigation system (including greenhouse systems) used for pesticide 

application to a public water system unless the pesticide label-prescribed safety devices 

for public water systems are in place.

5) A person knowledgeable of the chemigation system and responsible for its operation, or 

under the supervision of the responsible person, shall shut the system down and make any 

necessary adjustments should the need arise.

Requirements for Chemigation Systems Connected to Public Water Systems:

1) Public water supply means a system for the provision to the public of piped water for 

human consumption if such system has at least 15 service connections or regularly serves 

an average of 25 individuals daily at least 60 days throughout the year.

2) Chemigation systems connected to the public water systems must contain a functional, 

reduced-pressure zone (RPZ), backflow preventer or the functional equivalent in the 

water supply upstream from the point of pesticide introduction. As an option to the RPZ, 

the water from the public water system should be discharged into a reservoir tank prior to 

pesticide introduction. There shall be a complete physical break (air gap) between the 

flow outlet end of the fill pipe and the top or the overflow rim of the reservoir tank of at 

least twice the inside diameter of the fill pipe.

3) The pesticide injection pipeline must contain a functional, automatic, quick-closing check 

valve to prevent the flow of fluid back toward the injection pump.
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4) The pesticide injection pipeline must contain a functional, normally closed, solenoidoperated valve located on the intake side of the injection pump and connected to the 

system interlock to prevent fluid from being withdrawn from the supply tank when the 

irrigation system is either automatically or manually shut down.

5) The system must contain functional interlocking controls to automatically shut off the 

pesticide injection pump when the water pump motor stops, or in cases where there is no 

water pump, when the water pressure decreases to the point where pesticide distribution 

is adversely affected.

6) Systems must use a metering pump, such as a positive displacement injection pump (e.g., 

diaphragm pump), effectively designed and constructed of materials that are compatible 

with pesticides and capable of being fitted with a system interlock.

7) Do not apply when wind speed favors drift beyond the area intended for treatment.

Requirements for Sprinkler Chemigation:

1) The system must contain a functional check valve, vacuum relief valve, and low pressure 

drain appropriately located on the irrigation pipeline to prevent water source 

contamination from back flow.

2) The pesticide injection pipeline must contain a functional, automatic, quick-closing check 

valve to prevent the flow of fluid back toward the injection pump.

3) The pesticide injection pipeline must also contain a functional, normally closed, solenoidoperated valve located on the intake side of the injection pump and connected to the 

system interlock to prevent fluid from being withdrawn from the supply tank when the 

irrigation system is either automatically or manually shut down.

4) The system must contain functional interlocking controls to automatically shut off the 

pesticide injection pump when the water pump motor stops.

5) The irrigation line or water pump must include a functional pressure switch, which will 

stop the water pump motor when the water pressure decreases to the point where 

pesticide distribution is adversely affected.

6) Systems must use a metering pump, such as a positive displacement injection pump (e.g., 

diaphragm pump), effectively designed and constructed of materials that are compatible 

with pesticides and capable of being fitted with a system interlock.

7) Do not apply when wind speed favors drift beyond the area intended for treatment.

RAIN FASTNESS

The majority of virus uptake by larvae occurs within 1 hour post-application. For this reason, it 

is best to avoid applying Heligen if heavy rain is expected within one hour following 

application. However do not delay application if only moderate rain is expected, or heavy rain is 

not imminent.

DAYS TO HARVEST

There are no restrictions on applying Heligen up to the time of harvest.
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STORAGE and DISPOSAL

Do not contaminate water, food, or feed by storage and disposal.

PESTICIDE STORAGE

Store in the closed, original container out of direct sunlight at or below 40°F. Storage in a 

domestic freezer (at 0°F) is suitable – the product will remain liquid. The product is stable for at 

least 21⁄2 years if stored as indicated. The product can be stored for short periods (<24 hours) 

below 80°F. Reclose containers of unused portions of Heligen.

PESTICIDE DISPOSAL

To avoid wastes, use material in this container by application according to label directions. If 

wastes cannot be avoided, offer remaining product to waste disposal facility or pesticide disposal 

program (often such programs are run by state or local governments or by industry).

CONTAINER HANDLING

[Plastic containers with capacities equal to or less than 5 gallons:] Nonrefillable container. Do 

not reuse or refill this container. Triple rinse container (or equivalent) promptly after emptying. 

Triple rinse as follows: Empty the remaining contents into application equipment or a mix tank 

and drain for 10 seconds after the flow begins to drip. Fill the container 1/4 full with water and 

recap. Shake for 10 seconds. Pour rinsate into application equipment or a mix tank, or store 

rinsate for later use or disposal. Drain for 10 seconds after the flow begins to drip. Repeat this 

procedure two more times. Then offer for recycling if available or puncture and dispose of in a 

sanitary landfill, or by incineration. Do not burn, unless allowed by state and local ordinance. If 

burned, stay out of smoke. 

WARRANTY STATEMENT

This product as supplied is of a high grade and suitable for the purpose for which it is expressly 

intended and must be used according to the directions contained in this label. The user must 

monitor the performance of the product as climatic, geographical or biological variables and/or 

developed resistance may affect the results obtained. To the extent allowed under the applicable 

law, AgBiTech Pty Ltd accepts no responsibility in respect of this product.