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Crop Protection & Pesticides

Sempra Herbicide: Halosulfuron Methyl Active, Cyperus, and Uses

Sempra is a selective post-emergence herbicide manufactured by Dhanuka Agritech containing Halosulfuron Methyl 75% WG. It is specifically formulated to eliminate Purple Nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus / motha) in sugarcane and maize crops by destroying underground tubers.

Last reviewed: 10 November 2026

Active Chemistry and Tuber-Destroying Action

Halosulfuron Methyl belongs to the sulfonylurea chemical family (HRAC Group 2). It inhibits acetolactate synthase (ALS), an enzyme essential for branched-chain amino acid synthesis. Unlike contact herbicides that only burn foliage, Sempra translocates systemically downward into the underground rhizome and tuber network of Cyperus rotundus.

This subterranean translocation exhausts tuber food reserves and stops dormant buds from sprouting.

  • Eliminates motha tubers: Translocates to underground nut chains, preventing dormant buds from producing new shoots.
  • Crop safety: Highly selective to sugarcane and maize without inducing crop stunting when applied as per label recommendations.
  • Formulation: Water dispersible granule (WG) that dissolves completely in clean spray water.

Spray Timing and Application Guidelines

Optimal control requires spraying when Cyperus rotundus is actively growing with 3 to 5 green leaves, accompanied by a non-ionic surfactant.

Proper adjuvant addition enhances spray droplet spreading across waxy sedge leaf cuticles.

  • Apply when soil possesses sufficient moisture; dry soil hinders systemic herbicide translocation.
  • Use a non-ionic surfactant or recommended adjuvant to enhance leaf wetting and cuticle penetration.
  • Spray using knapsack sprayers fitted with flat fan or floodjet nozzles for uniform surface distribution.

Official source

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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗

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Common questions

What is the active ingredient in Sempra herbicide?

Sempra contains Halosulfuron Methyl 75% WG, a sulfonylurea herbicide inhibiting acetolactate synthase.

Does Sempra kill the underground tubers of motha (Cyperus rotundus)?

Yes, Sempra translocates systemically through the phloem to destroy the subterranean nuts and rhizome chains, preventing re-emergence.

In which crops is Sempra approved for application?

It is registered in India for selective post-emergence control of Cyperus rotundus in sugarcane and maize.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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