RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC, Aug 30, 2010

Bayer CropScience LP and Monsanto Company have entered into an exclusive agreement on the use of Poncho(R)/VOTiVO(TM) seed treatment.

Offered exclusively with Acceleron(R) Seed Treatment Products for corn, Poncho/VOTiVO seed treatment from Bayer CropScience combines the number one corn seed-applied insecticide with a new living-barrier approach to nematode protection.

New Poncho/VOTiVO provides a biological mode of action that introduces a revolutionary way to protect corn seedlings and roots against nematodes. It contains bacteria that live and grow with young corn roots, protecting against a broad range of nematodes that feed on corn.

Under the agreement, Monsanto will have exclusive rights to commercialize Poncho/VOTiVO with the 500 rate of Poncho under its industry-leading corn brand DEKALB(R), the Channel(R), brand and regional brands, as well as to license the product through its licensing business, which serves more than 180 corn seed companies throughout the United States and Canada. Additional details of the agreement were not disclosed.

Orders for Acceleron Seed Treatment Products, including Poncho/VOTiVO are being taken now for the 2011 growing season by your local seed dealer.

Acceleron(R), Channel(R), DEKALB(R) and Genuity(R) are registered trademarks of Monsanto Company.