Active ingredient and systemic mode of action
- Contains Halosulfuron Methyl 75% Water Dispersible Granules (WG), belonging to the sulfonylurea herbicide family.
- Inhibits the enzyme Acetolactate Synthase (ALS), halting the biosynthesis of essential branched-chain amino acids (valine, leucine, isoleucine).
- Rapidly absorbed by weed foliage and shoots, moving systemically through phloem and xylem into subterranean rhizomes and tubers.
- Stops weed cell division within hours, causing yellowing and necrosis of central whorls, with complete tuber decay over several weeks.
Labeled crops and nutsedge eradication
- Sugarcane: Provides selective safety to emerging cane shoots while completely knocking down aggressive motha carpets.
- Maize: Applied post-emergence to manage nutsedge without causing stunting or chlorosis to crop foliage.
- Specifically targets Cyperus rotundus (purple nutsedge) and Cyperus iria (yellow nutsedge), which resist most standard post-emergence herbicides.
Application window and spraying technique
- Apply when nutsedge is actively growing at the 3 to 5 leaf stage and soil contains adequate moisture.
- Mix thoroughly with the recommended non-ionic surfactant to enhance droplet spreading and foliar cuticular penetration.
- Use flat-fan or floodjet nozzles for uniform weed surface coverage, adhering strictly to CIBRC approved label dosages.
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 (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is Sempra herbicide used for?
It is used for selective post-emergence control of purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus / motha) in sugarcane and maize.
What is the active ingredient in Sempra?
Sempra contains Halosulfuron Methyl 75% WG, an ALS-inhibiting sulfonylurea herbicide.
Does Sempra destroy underground nutsedge tubers?
Yes, it translocates systemically down to subterranean tubers and rhizomes, preventing regrowth.
When is the best stage to spray Sempra on nutsedge?
Spray when nutsedge weeds have 3 to 5 leaves and are actively growing in moist soil.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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