Chemical Class and Photosystem II Inhibition
Basagran contains Bentazone (sodium salt) 48% SL, belonging to the benzothiadiazinone chemical family of selective herbicides.
It operates as an inhibitor of photosynthetic electron transport at the Photosystem II (PSII) complex (WSSA Group 6 / HRAC Group C3). Binding to the D1 protein plastoquinone-binding site halts CO2 fixation, leading to chlorophyll breakdown and rapid foliar necrosis within 3 to 5 days under sunlight.
- Active ingredient: Bentazone 48 percent w/v SL (Soluble Liquid)
- Herbicide classification: WSSA Group 6 / HRAC Group C3 (Photosystem II inhibitors - benzothiadiazinones)
- Action mode: Selective contact action with rapid cuticular penetration and localized translaminar movement
- Crop safety: High physiological tolerance in rice; rice plants rapidly detoxify the molecule via glucose conjugation
CIBRC Approved Target Weeds and Paddy Systems
The Central Insecticides Board registers Bentazone 48% SL for controlling tough annual sedges and broadleaf weed flushes in both wetland transplanted paddy and direct-seeded rice (DSR).
Unlike ACCase grass herbicides, Bentazone targets stubborn cyperaceous sedges that evade standard post-emergence grass herbicides.
- Target sedges: *Cyperus difformis*, *Cyperus iria*, *Fimbristylis miliacea*, and *Scirpus* species
- Broadleaf weeds: *Eclipta alba*, *Ludwigia parviflora*, *Sphenoclea zeylanica*, and *Monochoria vaginalis*
- Application timing: Early post-emergence when sedges and broadleaf weeds are at the 2 to 4 leaf stage (15-25 days after sowing/transplanting)
- Water management: Drain standing field water before application to expose weed foliage; re-flood 48 hours post spraying
Field Application Guidelines and Sprayer Setup
Because Bentazone is a contact herbicide, achieving complete foliar coverage on weed leaves is essential for complete weed knockdown.
Apply using a tractor-mounted boom or manual knapsack sprayer fitted with flat-fan nozzles. Avoid application when weeds are under severe drought stress or when rain is expected within 4 to 6 hours.
- Nozzle type: Flat-fan or floodjet nozzles delivering uniform medium droplets
- Water volume: 300 to 500 liters of water per hectare for complete weed foliage coverage
- Rainfastness: Requires 4 to 6 hours of dry weather following spraying for complete absorption
- Operator safety: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, apron, boots, and protective eyewear during handling
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Why is Basagran effective against sedges in rice fields?
Bentazone selectively targets and destroys the cellular membranes of sedges (*Cyperus* species) and broadleaf weeds via photosystem II inhibition, while rice naturally detoxifies the chemical.
Should water be drained from the paddy field before spraying Basagran?
Yes, standing water must be drained prior to spraying to fully expose weed leaves to the contact herbicide, and fields can be re-flooded 48 hours later.
Does Basagran control narrow-leaved grassy weeds like Echinochloa?
No, Basagran is a selective broadleaf and sedge herbicide; it does not control annual grassy weeds like *Echinochloa* (barnyard grass).
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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