For more than two decades, Group 27 HPPD inhibitors have been the last major innovation in herbicide mode of action for corn and soybean crops. That's about to change. Icafolin introduces a fresh mode of action so new that it doesn't yet belong to an official herbicide group-a rarity in modern crop protection.

"Icafolin offers a completely different visual symptomology on weeds," says Brian Naber, head of Bayer Crop Science's North America and Australia-New Zealand Region. "Weeds treated with Icafolin essentially freeze in place, immediately ceasing competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight."

This postemergence compound also plays a role in soil health. Treated weeds maintain structural integrity, creating a natural mulch that retains soil moisture and reduces erosion-adding agronomic value beyond weed control and aligning with regenerative agriculture goals.

Convintro Herbicide: Group 12 Chemistry Returns in a New Role

Bayer is also preparing to reintroduce Group 12 chemistry to U.S. fields with Diflufenican, branded as Convintro. Already used in Europe, this product will serve as a burndown and preemergence herbicide for soybeans, particularly targeting waterhemp and Palmer amaranth.

Pending regulatory approval, Convintro is set to be available by 2026, offering another mode-of-action rotation tool for U.S. growers looking to manage herbicide resistance while preserving yield potential.

Dicamba's Possible Comeback: 2026 Outlook

The status of dicamba-tolerant soybeans has been turbulent. After the EPA vacated all dicamba labels for soybean use in early 2024 due to legal challenges and off-target drift complaints, the product was pulled from the market for 2025.

Now, momentum is building for a potential return in 2026. The EPA's public comment period has surfaced proposals for new application protocols, including volatility reduction agents and temperature-based restrictions. Bayer's Naber is optimistic:

"We're confident the tool will come back. It will be a highly effective tool, and we'll be able to keep it where it's supposed to be."

If reinstated, dicamba could once again serve as both a preplant and postemergence herbicide for dicamba-tolerant soybean systems-adding much-needed flexibility to weed control programs.

Innovation Driving Sustainable Weed Control

The upcoming wave of herbicides from Bayer represents more than product launches-it reflects a broader strategy to offer integrated weed management solutions that support sustainable agriculture. From Icafolin's groundbreaking action to Convintro's proven chemistry and dicamba's regulated return, U.S. row crop producers are gaining powerful tools for the seasons ahead.

As input costs, herbicide resistance, and soil conservation continue to challenge farm profitability, these new options could offer not just better yields-but more resilient and regenerative practices for the future of American agriculture.