UPL Start Insecticide – Fipronil Seed Treatment for Soil Pest Control in Soybean, Corn and Pasture

22 May 2026, New Delhi: Start is an insecticide from UPL do Brasil formulated for seed treatment, with fipronil as the active ingredient. It is available for both industrial seed treatment (applied at seed processing facilities) and on-farm treatment (applied by the producer before sowing). The product is registered for soybean, corn and pasture grass establishment.

Active Ingredient and Mode of Action

Fipronil belongs to the phenylpyrazole chemical group, classified under IRAC Group 2B (GABA-gated chloride channel blockers). It acts by blocking GABA-regulated chloride channels in the insect nervous system, preventing normal inhibitory signaling and causing uncontrolled nerve activity, paralysis and death.

Fipronil is applied to the seed surface, from where it is taken up by emerging roots and provides localized protection in the soil zone around the germinating seed and young root system.

Registered Crops and Target Pests

• Soybean – termites (Cornitermes spp., Heterotermes tenuis), burrowing bug (Scaptocoris castanea), soil beetle larvae
• Corn – termites, soil beetle larvae, cutworms
• Pasture – termites, burrowing bug; protection during grass establishment

Application Guidelines

On-Farm Treatment

• Apply the specified dose directly onto seeds using a drum or continuous-flow seed treater
• Ensure uniform coverage of all seeds before sowing
• Allow treated seeds to dry before loading into the planter if required by label

Compatibility

• Check label for compatibility with fungicide seed treatments and rhizobium inoculants
• When combining with inoculants, follow the recommended application order – typically fungicide first, then insecticide, then inoculant last

Precautions

Fipronil is highly toxic to bees and other non-target insects. Treated seeds must not be left exposed on the soil surface. Calibrate the planter to ensure proper seed burial. Wear PPE as specified during handling and treatment.

Manufacturer

UPL do Brasil Ltda. Ituverava, São Paulo, Brazil. MAPA-registered product. Sale requires Agronomic Prescription.

Notice: For agricultural use only. Sale requires an Agronomic Prescription issued by a licensed Agronomist. Read the full label and safety data sheet before use.

Also Read: Insecticides (India) Limited Launches New Paddy Insecticide ‘Granuvia’

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