Mesotrione 15% SC

ICAMA Reg. No. PD20160058

Product Category: Heribicides 

A selective, systemic herbicide offering both pre-emergence and post-emergence control of a wide range of annual broadleaf and certain grass weeds in maize cultivation.

Why Choose Mesotrione 15% SC?

• Unique mode of action targeting 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), disrupting carotenoid biosynthesis.

• Effective against a broad spectrum of weeds, including those resistant to other herbicide classes.

• Flexible application timing with both foliar and soil activity.

Key Features:

Innovative Mode of Action: Inhibits HPPD enzyme, leading to depletion of essential pigments and subsequent weed death.

1.      Broad-Spectrum Control: Targets numerous broadleaf weeds and select grass species, enhancing crop yield potential.

2.      Systemic Activity: Absorbed through leaves and roots, ensuring comprehensive internal distribution within the plant.

Detailed Description:

Mesotrione 15% SC is a suspension concentrate herbicide specifically formulated for maize (corn) fields. Its active ingredient, mesotrione, is a member of the triketone chemical family, inspired by the natural phytotoxin leptospermone found in the bottlebrush plant (Callistemon citrinus). Mesotrione functions by inhibiting the enzyme 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD), crucial for the biosynthesis of carotenoids—pigments that protect chlorophyll from photodegradation. Inhibition of HPPD leads to bleaching symptoms in susceptible weeds, followed by necrosis and plant death. This herbicide exhibits both foliar and soil activity, allowing for flexible application timing to manage a wide array of weed species. Its systemic nature ensures translocation throughout the plant, targeting both emerged weeds and those germinating from the soil seed bank. Incorporating Mesotrione 15% SC into an integrated weed management program enhances control efficacy, particularly against herbicide-resistant weed populations, and supports sustainable maize production.

Effective Against:

·         Broadleaf Weeds:

• Redroot Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus): Competes aggressively for nutrients and light, reducing crop yields.

• Common Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album): Rapid growth and high seed production make it a formidable competitor.

• Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti): Known for its tall stature and dense foliage, which can overshadow crops.

• Common Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia): Produces abundant pollen and seeds, leading to persistent infestations.

• Waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus): Exhibits extended germination periods and potential herbicide resistance.

• Grass Weeds:

• Giant Foxtail (Setaria faberi): Its rapid growth and seed production can lead to significant crop competition.

• Yellow Foxtail (Setaria pumila): Competes for resources and can reduce crop yields if not managed.

Registered Scope and Method of Use

* Note: Apply post-emergence when maize is at the 3–5 leaf stage and weeds are at the 3–7 leaf stage. Mix the specified dosage with 375–450 liters of water per mu and apply as a uniform foliar spray. Limit to one application per growing season.

Technical Application Requirements:

1.      Crop Sensitivity: Primarily suitable for dent and flint maize varieties. Sweet corn, popcorn, waxy corn, ornamental corn, seed corn, and maize inbred lines may exhibit sensitivity; conduct trials to confirm crop safety before widespread application.

2.      Tank Mixing Restrictions: Do not mix with alkaline substances or organophosphate insecticides. Avoid using organophosphate insecticides within 7 days before or after mesotrione application to prevent potential crop injury.

3.      Crop Rotation Intervals: Following mesotrione application, a minimum interval of 10 months is required before planting canola, Chinese cabbage, or radish. For sugar beet, alfalfa, tobacco, vegetables, and legumes, conduct field trials to determine appropriate planting intervals.

4.      Soil Residue Considerations: Avoid application in fields previously treated with long-residual herbicides such as sulfonylureas (e.g., metsulfuron-methyl) to prevent potential cumulative phytotoxic effects.