Coimbatore : Bayer announced the launch of Xivana™ Smart, its latest fungicide innovation designed to protect high-value horticultural crops from devastating diseases such as downy mildew and late blight. Powered by the new active ingredient under FRAC group 49, Xivana™ Smart delivers superior disease control in grapes, cucurbits, potato and tomato, helping farmers safeguard crop quality, improve productivity and maximize returns.

Downy mildew and late blight are among the most destructive diseases affecting horticultural crops, often accounting for nearly half of farmers’ crop protection expenditure. As disease pressure intensifies due to changing weather patterns and prolonged periods of humidity, growers require innovative solutions that provide reliable, long-lasting protection while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Xivana ™ Smart addresses this challenge with a modern mode of action that delivers best-in-class performance against oomycete diseases. The solution offers outstanding efficacy with protection lasting an average of 7 to 14 days, even under rainy conditions. Its rainfast properties and ability to protect both existing foliage and new plant growth enable farmers to better manage disease pressure throughout the crop cycle.

Commenting on the launch, Mohan Babu, Chief Operating Officer – India, Crop Science Division, Bayer, said: “Horticulture is central to India’s nutritional security and farmer prosperity. With Xivana™ Smart, Bayer is bringing science-led innovation that helps horticulture farmers manage complex disease pressures, protect crop quality and build more resilient, sustainable food systems.”

Xivana™ Smart will be available across key horticulture-growing regions including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab.