Posted 7 May 2004. Crop Management.

MaxCel™ Plant Growth Regulator Receives U.S. EPA Registration

Valent U.S.A. Corporation.

Walnut Creek, CA. (May 5, 2004) - Apple growers now have access to a state-of-the-art product for use in post-bloom thinning and sizing programs. MaxCel™  Plant Growth Regulator recently received Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration and is already registered in many states.

MaxCel, marketed by Valent, helps apples reach their full potential at
packout. It is proven effective, even on difficult-to-size varieties such as
Gala, Fuji and Empire. MaxCel's specialized formulation offers superior
coverage and absorption. And, the product reduces alternate bearing by
promoting return bloom.

"We are excited about introducing MaxCel to help apple growers reach optimum value from their orchards," said Kelli Woodwick, Valent market manager. "We are dedicated to bringing new solutions to the apple industry and are pleased to introduce MaxCel and Zeal™ Miticide in the 2004 growing season."

In addition to the MaxCel's direct thinning effect, the product promotes fruit growth, causing increased size. MaxCel contains a cytokinin-type of plant growth regulator found in nature.

MaxCel was introduced to growers in 2003 through an Experimental Use Program (EUP) that allowed growers and university researchers to test the product. Ricardo Menendez, Valent BioSciences Corporation global product manager for plant growth regulators, said both groups were excited about the results and are looking forward to using the apple thinner this year.

"Valent is always talking to growers to find out what their most current needs are," Menendez added. "This is why we developed MaxCel -- so we could provide them with a better product. Additionally, we are always there, providing technical support to our customers."

Contact:

Molly R. Okeon

(901) 523-2000
mokeon@archermalmo.com

Elsa Zisook

(925) 256-2841
elsa.zisook@valent.com