Chemical Class and Photosystem II Inhibitory Action
Diuron 80% WP belongs to the substituted urea chemical family. It functions as an inhibitor of photosynthetic electron transport at the Photosystem II (PSII) complex in plant chloroplast thylakoid membranes.
By binding to the D1 protein plastoquinone-binding site, Diuron blocks electron transfer from QA to QB. This halts CO2 fixation and ATP generation, causing chlorophyll destruction, lipid membrane peroxidation, and rapid foliar chlorosis.
- Active ingredient: Diuron 80 percent w/w WP (Wettable Powder)
- Herbicide group: WSSA Group 7 / HRAC Group C2 (Photosystem II inhibitors - substituted ureas)
- Mobility: Absorbed readily by root systems and translocated acropetally via xylem to foliage
- Selectivity: High tolerance in deep-rooted perennials and directed-spray commercial crops
CIBRC Approved Target Crops and Weeds
The Central Insecticides Board registers Diuron 80% WP for selective weed suppression across industrial plantations, perennial orchards, and tolerant field crops.
When applied as a soil surface spray under adequate soil moisture, it creates a chemical barrier that destroys germinating weed seedlings as they emerge.
- Sugarcane: Applied pre-emergence after set planting or early post-emergence directed between rows
- Cotton: Pre-emergence or directed post-emergence application avoiding tender crop foliage
- Rubber and Tea: Non-crop directed inter-row weed suppression in mature plantations
- Target weed spectrum: Annual grasses, broadleaf weeds, and select shallow-rooted sedges
Application Guidelines, Soil Interaction, and Safety
Diuron adsorption depends heavily on soil clay and organic matter content. Lighter sandy soils require reduced doses to avoid crop phytotoxicity, while heavy clay soils bind the molecule more strongly.
Uniform soil moisture is essential for root activation. Applicators must use flat-fan nozzles and wear chemical-resistant personal protective equipment to prevent skin contact and respiratory exposure.
- Soil moisture: Apply to moist soil beds or irrigate lightly post application for chemical activation
- Nozzle type: Flat-fan or floodjet nozzles delivering uniform coarse droplets
- Soil texture caution: Exercise care on light sandy soils with low organic matter to prevent leaching injury
- Protective apparel: Wear nitrile gloves, protective eyewear, boots, and face mask
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
How does Diuron kill germinating weeds?
Diuron is absorbed by seedling roots and translocated to leaves, where it blocks photosystem II electron transport, halting photosynthesis and destroying cell membranes upon sun exposure.
Can Diuron be applied to standing cotton crops?
In cotton, Diuron is applied either pre-emergence after sowing or as a shielded, directed post-emergence spray between rows to avoid contact with cotton foliage.
Does Diuron remain active in the soil?
Yes, Diuron provides residual pre-emergence soil activity lasting several weeks; follow approved rotational guidelines before planting sensitive follow-up crops.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Crop Protection & Pesticides guides
Ask Sakhi AI in your language, check live mandi prices or plan a loan with KisanPe tools.