Chemical active ingredient and photosystem mode of action
- Triazinone chemical class: Active ingredient Metribuzin at 70% concentration (HRAC/WSSA Group 5).
- Photosystem II inhibition: Binds to the D1 protein of the photosynthetic electron transport chain, halting carbon dioxide fixation and generating toxic reactive oxygen species that destroy weed chloroplasts.
- Dual root and foliar absorption: Absorbed through emerging weed roots and shoots, moving acropetally in the xylem to accumulate in foliage.
- Residual weed shield: Forms a chemical protective barrier in the top 2 to 3 cm of soil, preventing emerging weed flushes for 30 to 45 days.
CIBRC approved target crops and weeds
Approved in Indian agriculture for managing Chenopodium album (bathua), Phalaris minor, Melilotus alba, Portulaca oleracea, and Echinochloa spp. in potato, sugarcane, tomato, soybean, and wheat. In potato cultivation, applying Sencor as a pre-emergence spray after ridging keeps fields clean through early tuber initiation.
Soil moisture, dosage and crop safety precautions
- Apply only on moist soil (vapsa condition) using a flat-fan or flood-jet nozzle; dry soil reduces herbicide activation and efficacy.
- In sandy soils or low organic matter soils, reduce dosage to avoid transient crop leaf chlorosis.
- Do NOT apply on sensitive potato or wheat cultivars noted on the product label.
- Observe the mandatory Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) printed on the product packaging before harvest.
Official source
Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.
Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the active chemical ingredient in Sencor?
Sencor contains Metribuzin at 70% concentration formulated as a Wettable Powder (70% WP).
When should Sencor be sprayed in potato farming?
It is applied as a pre-emergence spray onto moist soil after planting and earthing-up, before potato sprouts emerge above the soil.
Can Sencor be sprayed on dry soil?
No. Adequate topsoil moisture is essential for activating Metribuzin and establishing a uniform chemical weed barrier.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
More Crop Protection & Pesticides guides
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