Chemical Characteristics and Mode of Action
Paraquat belongs to the bipyridylium chemical class. When applied to foliage, it is absorbed by chlorophyll-containing tissue and intercepts electrons during photosynthesis.
This generates toxic reactive oxygen radicals that rupture cell membranes within hours of sun exposure, causing rapid desiccation and foliar collapse without soil residual activity.
- Formulation: 24 percent Soluble Liquid (SL)
- Type: Non-selective contact herbicide with no root translocation
- Rainfastness: Rapidly binds to plant foliage and resists wash-off within thirty minutes
Authorized Label Uses and Application Contexts
Paraquat is approved for weed suppression in plantation crops like tea, coffee, and rubber, as well as directed inter-row spraying in cotton, maize, and non-agricultural land.
Because it has no residual activity in soil where it rapidly adsorbs to clay particles, it is widely utilized for land clearing ahead of zero-tillage sowing.
- Plantation maintenance: Controls broadleaf weeds and grasses between plantation crop rows
- Directed spray: Must use protective spray hoods when applied between crop rows to avoid crop contact
- Bund clearing: Applied on irrigation channels and farm perimeter bunds before planting
Strict Safety Precautions and Operator Handling
Paraquat formulation contains emetic agents, dye markers, and stenching agents in compliance with national safety regulations to prevent accidental ingestion.
Applicators must follow statutory safety warnings, wear full protective clothing, avoid mist drift, and never use leaking equipment.
- Personal protection: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, apron, respirator, and safety goggles
- Spray equipment: Use low-drift flat fan nozzles with protective hoods
- Storage: Store under secure lock and key away from animal fodder, food grains, and domestic premises
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 ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
Is Paraquat Dichloride a selective herbicide?
No, it is a non-selective contact herbicide that damages any green photosynthetic plant tissue it contacts.
Does Paraquat remain active in the soil?
No, Paraquat is rapidly and strongly inactivated upon contact with soil particles through adsorption to clay minerals.
Why is a protective hood mandatory when spraying near crops?
A spray hood prevents fine herbicide droplets from drifting onto crop leaves, stems, or buds, avoiding unintended crop scorching.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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