· Nine new crops added to biofungicide label in California, including rice, strawberries, tree nuts and apples
· Novel mode of action triggers plants’ natural defense systems against pathogens and abiotic stressors
· Systemic activity supports strong disease protection and overall plant vigor
CARY, NC, USA (December 12, 2025) – UPL NA Inc. (UPL), a provider of a comprehensive portfolio of agricultural solutions, announces the broad label expansion of Vacciplant® biofungicide in California, adding nine specialty crops to its existing registration. Previously approved for use on lettuce and grapes, Vacciplant can now be applied to additional key crops including rice, strawberries, tree nuts and apples.
“This label expansion gives growers a powerful new biosolution to enhance disease control and optimize plant health across a wide range of key specialty crops in California,” said Pankaj Pathak, PhD, Product Manager, Biocontrols for UPL Corp. “When used preventatively, Vacciplant is a versatile addition to conventional and biological fungicide spray programs to boost performance and enable high-end yield potential, while supporting a sustainable resistant management program.”
Vacciplant provides systemic protection, moving throughout the plant to safeguard both treated tissue and new growth.
“When disease is detected, Vacciplant uses a novel FRAC P4 mode of action to stimulate a plant’s natural defense mechanisms to fight against pathogens and abiotic stressors in three ways,” says Ron Cowman, North American Commercial Lead for Seed, Soil & Crop Health at UPL Corp. “First, it reinforces cell walls. Then, it stimulates the production of phytoalexins, creating a toxic environment for the pathogens. Finally, Vacciplant produces PR proteins, which play a critical role in providing defense in the infected tissue.”
Vacciplant biofungicide is compatible with many crop protection and biological products making it a strong tank-mix partner. It is exempt from Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), and its zero-day Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) makes it an effective option for late-season applications. No phytotoxicity has been observed and Vacciplant provides a high level of crop safety.
For more information about Vacciplant, including the full list of registered crops in California and other states, contact your local UPL Corp representative or retailer, or visit uplcorp.com/us.
