Chemical family and ACCase enzyme inhibition
Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl belongs to the aryloxyphenoxypropionate ('FOP') chemical family and functions as a systemic post-emergence herbicide.
It specifically inhibits acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), a key enzyme essential for de novo fatty acid synthesis in grass weed meristematic tissues. Broadleaf crops possess an insensitive form of ACCase, granting complete physiological crop safety.
- Active chemical: Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 9.3% EC (emulsifiable concentrate).
- Herbicide classification: HRAC Group 1 (ACCase inhibitor).
- Rapid foliar uptake: Absorbed through green grass foliage and translocated acropetally and basipetally to growing crown and root buds.
Target grass weed spectrum and approved broadleaf crops
The product is registered for controlling a wide spectrum of annual and perennial grassy weeds without injuring broadleaf host plants.
It is a cornerstone post-emergence herbicide for soybean, cotton, groundnut, blackgram, and vegetable growers.
- Target grass weeds: Echinochloa colonum (jungle rice), Echinochloa crus-galli, Eleusine indica (goosegrass), Digitaria sanguinalis, and Setaria species.
- Soybean: Applied post-emergence when grass weeds are actively growing at 2 to 4 leaf stage.
- Cotton: Safe selective post-emergence over-the-top spray for grass weed control.
- Groundnut and Pulses: Controls narrowleaf weeds without causing phytotoxicity or stunting broadleaf crop canopies.
Application timing, moisture prerequisites, and spray guidelines
For optimum weed mortality, apply Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl when grass weeds are actively growing at the 2 to 4-leaf stage.
Good soil moisture is critical; spraying weeds under severe drought or moisture stress significantly reduces herbicide absorption and control.
- Application window: Spray 15 to 25 days after sowing when grass weeds have 2 to 4 leaves.
- Soil moisture: Ensure adequate soil moisture; do not spray onto drought-stressed weeds.
- Spray equipment: Use knapsack or power sprayer fitted with flat fan nozzles for even foliar droplet distribution.
- Broadleaf weed limitation: Does not control broadleaf weeds or sedges; tank-mix only with verified physically compatible broadleaf herbicides.
Official source
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ICAR - Directorate of Weed Research ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Does Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 9.3% EC control broadleaf weeds?
No, it is strictly a grass-selective herbicide (graminicide) that controls annual and perennial grasses without affecting broadleaf plants.
What is the best growth stage of weeds for applying Fenoxaprop?
It is most effective when grass weeds are actively growing at the 2 to 4 leaf stage under good soil moisture conditions.
Can Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl be safely used in soybean fields?
Yes, soybean plants naturally tolerate the active ingredient, making it a standard post-emergence grass herbicide in soybean cultivation.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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