Chemical profile and PPO inhibitor mode of action
- Active ingredient: Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC (diphenyl ether group, HRAC/WSSA Group 14 / E).
- Mode of action: Inhibits protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO), leading to light-induced cell membrane peroxidation, desiccation, and weed necrosis.
- Chemical barrier: Forms a continuous herbicide chemical seal on the soil surface that destroys emerging weed shoots upon contact.
- Residual activity: Delivers extended soil residual protection of 30 to 45 days, preventing secondary flushes of weed emergence.
Approved target crops and weed control spectrum
- Onion and Garlic: Industry standard applied as a pre-planting or early post-transplanting spray (prior to weed emergence).
- Tea plantations: Controls broadleaf weeds and annual grasses along tea bushes without injuring woody stems.
- Potato and Groundnut: Controls chenopodium, amaranthus, trianthema, and digitaria grass seedlings.
- Rice nurseries: Used under specific regional recommendations for pre-emergence weed suppression.
Soil preparation, application timing, and precautions
- Soil condition: Requires a well-pulverized, clod-free, and moist seedbed to form an unbroken chemical barrier on the soil surface.
- Do not disturb soil: Avoid post-spray hoeing or inter-cultivation for 3 to 4 weeks to prevent breaking the protective herbicide seal.
- Spraying equipment: Apply with a knapsack or tractor-mounted sprayer fitted with a floodjet or flat fan nozzle delivering 200 litres of water per acre.
- Personal protection: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and an apron during spray preparation.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active chemical in Oxygold herbicide?
Oxygold contains Oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC, a selective diphenyl ether herbicide.
Why is Oxygold widely used in onion cultivation?
It forms a safe, long-lasting soil barrier that prevents broadleaf weeds and annual grasses from emerging in onion beds.
How does Oxygold kill emerging weeds?
It inhibits the PPO enzyme, which in the presence of sunlight triggers rapid cell membrane rupture and weed desiccation.
Should the soil be tilled after applying Oxygold?
No, do not till or disturb the soil after application because breaking the chemical layer allows weeds to emerge.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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