This has been a common question, and the short answer is you could potentially have to spray for sugarcane aphids until near the time harvest aids are applied. The direct effect of aphids on yield will diminish rapidly after soft dough. Unfortunately, there are some bad experiences with harvesting grain sorghum when high numbers of aphids are found in the heads. This sometimes occurs after desiccants are applied. The honey dew that accumulates on heads can significantly affect harvest efficiency. There is no established threshold. Making a treatment decision will require some judgement, but consider an application if aphids are present at moderate numbers on the majority of plants in the field (even if after soft dough).

The Section 18 for Transform requires a 14 day pre-harvest interval for grain or stover (7 days for forage). Sivanto has a 21 day pre-harvest interval for grain or stover, and 7 days for forage.