Chemical Class and Physiological Mode of Action
Mepiquat Chloride is a quaternary ammonium plant bioregulator. It functions as an inhibitor of gibberellic acid (GA) biosynthesis, specifically blocking the early enzymatic steps in the ent-kaurene synthesis pathway.
By lowering internal active gibberellin levels, Chamatkar suppresses cell elongation in internodes without reducing leaf number. This creates a compact, sturdy plant architecture that resists wind lodging and facilitates better sunlight penetration.
- Vegetative Growth Control: Shortens internodal length, preventing 'rank growth' and excessive foliage shading.
- Assimilate Redirection: Diverts photosynthates from lush stems directly into reproductive bolls and flower buds.
- Formulation Type: Aqueous Solution (5% w/w AS) that mixes completely and cleanly with spray water.
Agronomic Benefits in Cotton Farming
In irrigated and high-fertility cotton ecosystems, heavy nitrogen fertilization and extended monsoon rains often trigger aggressive rank growth. Tall, bushy plants shade lower fruiting branches, causing square shedding, boll rot, and poor spray penetration.
Applying Chamatkar at square initiation or early flowering checks canopy height, promotes synchronous flowering, enhances boll weight, and hastens boll opening and defoliation.
- Boll Retention: Reduces premature shedding of fruiting forms (squares and small bolls).
- Canopy Aeration: Improves air circulation and light interception, curbing microclimate conditions favored by boll rot fungi.
- Harvest Efficiency: Produces uniformly mature cotton bushes that streamline manual hand picking or mechanical harvesting.
Application Timing and Spray Guidelines
Apply Chamatkar when cotton plants reach the square formation stage (typically 50 to 60 days after sowing) or at early bloom when vegetative growth accelerates. Ensure uniform foliar coverage using flat fan or hollow cone nozzles.
Do not apply Chamatkar to cotton crops suffering from severe moisture stress, waterlogging, or severe nutrient deficiencies, as checking growth under stressed conditions can restrict plant development.
- Optimal Timing: Apply at square initiation to early flower burst for maximum canopy regulation.
- Adequate Moisture: Ensure field soil has sufficient moisture during foliar application.
- Safety and Compatibility: Compatible with standard non-alkaline insecticides; adhere to safety instructions on the product container.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the technical ingredient in Chamatkar PGR?
Chamatkar contains Mepiquat Chloride 5% w/w AS (Aqueous Solution), a plant growth regulator manufactured by Gharda Chemicals.
How does Chamatkar prevent rank growth in cotton?
It inhibits gibberellic acid synthesis, shortening internodal distances and preventing excessive leafy stem growth while promoting boll development.
Can Chamatkar be sprayed during drought stress?
No, it should not be applied to crops suffering from drought or water stress, as plants need adequate soil moisture to respond positively to growth regulation.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More General Agriculture guides
Ask Sakhi AI in your language, check live mandi prices or plan a loan with KisanPe tools.