The high rate is more expensive than the lower rate, but has an extended period of protection from flea beetles relative to the lower rate. Research is currently underway on additional seed treatments for flea beetle control in canola. Refer to Table 1 for the currently registered seed treatments. Counter 5G is extremely effective against flea beetles when used in conjunction with an insecticide seed treatment, especially on early seeded crops. Granular insecticides are taken in by the seedling's roots and translocated to the cotyledons and leaves.
Flea beetles receive a lethal dose of insecticide as they feed on the plant.
The movement of the insecticide from the in-furrow granules to the cotyledons may take two or three days, during which time the seedlings may be unprotected if an insecticide seed treatment is not used in conjunction with Counter 5G. Maximum protection begins to occur about five to six days after emergence and is available for up to 28 days after emergence. Granular insecticides are most effective when placed adjacent to the seed in moist soil on early planted crops. Counter 5G is effective with all seeding equipment if seed to granule placement is three inches or less. Granular insecticides when broadcast with the seed and incorporated with harrows are ineffective against flea beetles and a significant hazard to wildlife. Refer to Table 2 for currently registered, granular, in-furrow insecticides.