As Australia’s cotton industry continues to push for higher yield potential and more sustainable production, effective pest management remains a cornerstone of profitable crop performance.
Among the most persistent seasonal challenges for growers are the key sucking pests - aphids and mirids - which can inflict significant economic damage if not controlled early and effectively.
For rural retailers supporting cotton growers, having reliable, flexible solutions at the ready is essential.
One product that continues to stand out is Flikka 500WG, a well-established insecticide from Colin Campbell (Chemicals).
Flikka is built on the trusted active ingredient flonicamid, known for its strong performance on key sucking pests in a range of broadacre and horticultural crops.
In cotton, its selective activity against aphids and mirids makes it a valuable tool in integrated pest management (IPM) programs. While the industry benefits from a wide array of chemistry, few products provide the unique behavioural mode of action that Flikka offers.
National sales manager for Colin Campbell (Chemicals) Ramsay Zreikat says sucking pests are incredibly opportunistic.
“Aphids and mirids can build rapidly when conditions are right.
“Flikka gives retailers and growers a reliable, targeted option that fits neatly into modern cotton production systems.”
Aphids and mirids attack cotton in different but equally destructive ways.
Aphids produce honeydew that leads to sticky cotton - creating difficulties at picking time and downgrades in fibre quality.
Mirids, on the other hand, puncture squares, flowers, and small bolls, leading to shed fruit and direct yield loss.
Effective early intervention is critical, particularly during key growth stages when the crop is most vulnerable.
Flikka acts by quickly stopping feeding, reducing pest damage soon after application while still maintaining a favourable profile for beneficial insects - an important advantage in IPM-focused systems.
“The selective nature of Flikka is one of its biggest strengths,” Ramsay says.
“Retailers know growers need options that won’t compromise beneficial insect populations. Flikka offers control without disrupting biological balance in the crop.”
Growers also benefit from the product’s practical features.
The water-dispersible granule (WG) formulation dissolves and mixes easily. Its flexible positioning allows Flikka to slot into existing spray programs without complicating resistance management strategies.
“Flikka is a dependable part of the cotton toolbox,” Ramsay explains.
“Retailers appreciate products that growers trust, and growers appreciate chemistry they can rely on. It’s that simple.”
With cotton planting expanding across multiple regions and pest pressure fluctuating from season to season, having diverse insecticide groups available remains essential.
Flikka provides retailers with a proven, effective solution for managing two of the cotton industry’s most persistent pest threats.
As the push for sustainable cotton intensifies, products that deliver control while supporting broader agronomic strategies will continue to shape the future.
Flikka 500WG stands firmly in that space - practical, effective, and aligned with the needs of Australian cotton growers and the retailers who support them.
