Key Takeaways:
- Plant Health Care, Inc. announced progress in regulatory approval for its new biological product, PHC68949
- The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) completed its final review and opened the public comment period
- PHC68949 is the first foliar-applied solution for nematode management from the PREtec platform
- The product enhances natural plant defenses through dual-action mechanisms
- Approval would provide California growers with a new, sustainable pest management tool
Plant Health Care Nears Regulatory Approval for PHC68949
Plant Health Care, Inc. (PHC), a wholly owned subsidiary of PI Industries, Ltd., has reached a key milestone in the development of its new biological nematode protection solution. On October 9, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) released its final review results for the PHC68949 label, initiating the public comment period. This marks an important step toward bringing the innovative pest control product to California growers.
PHC68949 represents the latest advancement from Plant Health Care’s PREtec (Plant Response Elicitor Technology) platform. It is the first effective foliar-applied product for nematode management, designed to stimulate the plant’s natural defense systems.
Dual-Action Mechanism and Sustainable Protection
The PHC68949 formulation provides dual-action protection through two key defense responses:
- The Shield, which strengthens roots and reinforces cell walls to prevent nematode penetration
- The Spear, a result of root exudate production that reduces egg hatching and blocks juvenile feeding
By activating plants’ own defense systems, PHC68949 offers a sustainable, residue-free alternative for nematode management—helping growers protect crops while maintaining soil and environmental health.
Industry and Leadership Perspectives
“We thank the state of California for the timely release of the label review and hope to achieve the same from the U.S. EPA,” said Jagresh Rana, CEO of Plant Health Care, Inc.
Gary Obenauf, Executive Director of the California Specialty Crops Council, added, “California specialty crop growers face numerous pest pressures. We are excited that our members will likely soon have a safe and innovative tool to control destructive nematodes.”
Supporting Growers with Biological Innovation
Plant Health Care continues to advance biological solutions that support sustainable agriculture and improved productivity. The company’s PREtec platform is central to its mission of equipping farmers with technologies that enhance plants’ natural defenses, strengthen roots, and improve resilience.
As the public comment period progresses, PHC moves closer to introducing PHC68949 to the market—offering California growers a new, biologically driven tool for managing one of the most persistent challenges in crop production.
