Active chemical composition and mode of action
Hitweed contains Pyrithiobac Sodium 10% EC, a selective herbicide belonging to the pyrimidinyl carboxy chemical group.
It works by inhibiting the acetolactate synthase (ALS) enzyme in susceptible weed plants, arresting the biosynthesis of essential branched-chain amino acids. Susceptible broadleaf weeds cease growing immediately, showing yellowing and death within 10 to 14 days.
- Active chemical: Pyrithiobac Sodium 10% EC.
- HRAC group: Group 2 (ALS enzyme inhibitor).
- Cotton crop safety: Cotton plants possess high physiological tolerance, allowing safe over-the-top broadcast foliar spraying.
Target broadleaf weeds and application window in cotton
Hitweed is registered for selective broadleaf weed management in both irrigated and rainfed cotton fields across India.
It controls aggressive annual broadleaf weeds that establish rapidly during the early vegetative stages of cotton.
- Application window: Applied early post-emergence at 20 to 30 days after sowing when cotton has 2 to 4 leaves and weeds have 2 to 3 leaves.
- Target broadleaf weeds: Trianthema portulacastrum (carpet weed), Digera arvensis, Amaranthus viridis, and Celosia argentea.
- Over-the-top spray: Can be sprayed safely directly over the top of standing cotton without requiring row shields or hoods.
Soil moisture requirements and application best practices
Good topsoil moisture is vital when applying Hitweed to ensure active weed growth and rapid chemical absorption.
Applying onto severely drought-stressed weeds under hot, dry conditions reduces chemical uptake and weed control efficacy.
- Moisture prerequisite: Apply following an irrigation or good rainfall when the soil is moist.
- Spray equipment: Use a knapsack sprayer fitted with flat fan nozzles for uniform foliar droplet coverage.
- Graminicide tank mixing: Can be tank-mixed with compatible grass herbicides (like Quizalofop-ethyl) for comprehensive one-pass broadleaf and grass weed control.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
ICAR - Central Institute for Cotton Research ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active ingredient in Godrej Hitweed herbicide?
Hitweed contains Pyrithiobac Sodium 10% EC, a selective post-emergence broadleaf herbicide.
Can Hitweed be sprayed directly over standing cotton plants?
Yes, Hitweed is completely selective to cotton and can be safely sprayed directly over the top of standing cotton crops.
Which weeds are effectively controlled by Hitweed in cotton?
It specifically controls major broadleaf weeds such as Trianthema portulacastrum, Digera arvensis, and Amaranthus species.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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