Chemical Class and ALS Enzyme Inhibition
Strongarm features Diclosulam 84% formulated as Water Dispersible Granules (WDG). Belonging to the triazolopyrimidine sulfonamide chemical group, it operates as an acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitor (also known as acetohydroxyacid synthase or AHAS).
By blocking the ALS enzyme, Diclosulam prevents the biosynthesis of essential branched-chain amino acids (valine, leucine, and isoleucine) in germinating weeds. This results in rapid root and shoot growth cessation and complete plant death.
- Active ingredient: Diclosulam 84 percent w/w WDG
- Herbicide group: WSSA Group 2 / HRAC Group B (ALS / AHAS inhibitors)
- Selectivity: High physiological crop safety in soybean and groundnut
- Uptake route: Absorbed by germinating weed roots and emerging shoots
CIBRC Approved Target Weeds and Crops
The Central Insecticides Board registers Diclosulam 84% WDG for broad-spectrum pre-emergence weed control in major oilseed and pulse production systems.
Applied immediately after sowing into moist seedbeds, Strongarm establishes a chemical barrier in the top soil profile, suppressing tough broadleaf weeds and sedges before they emerge above ground.
- Soybean: Benghal dayflower (*Commelina benghalensis*), *Trianthema portulacastrum*, *Digera arvensis*, and *Celosia argentea*
- Groundnut: Purple nutsedge (*Cyperus rotundus* suppression), *Echinochloa* spp., and annual broadleaf weeds
- Application timing: Pre-emergence spray within 48 to 72 hours following crop sowing
- Moisture requirement: Adequate soil surface moisture is critical for chemical activation
Soil Preparation, Sprayer Setup, and Rotation Guidelines
Successful pre-emergence control requires a well-tilled, clod-free seedbed without excessive plant residue that could intercept herbicide droplets before reaching the soil.
Use a tractor-mounted boom or knapsack sprayer equipped with flat-fan or floodjet nozzles calibrated for uniform broadcast coverage. Do not perform mechanical interculture following application, as disturbing the soil breaks the chemical seal.
- Seedbed preparation: Fine, pulverized seedbed free of large clods and standing crop residue
- Nozzle type: Flat-fan or floodjet nozzles delivering medium-to-coarse spray droplets
- Water volume: 300 to 500 liters of water per hectare for complete ground coverage
- Rotational intervals: Follow label recommendations regarding succeeding rotational sensitive crops
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
When should Strongarm be sprayed on a soybean field?
Strongarm is a pre-emergence herbicide and must be applied within 48 to 72 hours after sowing, before crop seedlings and weeds emerge from the soil.
Does Strongarm control Cyperus rotundus (nutsedge)?
Diclosulam provides significant suppression of yellow and purple nutsedges (*Cyperus* species) during the critical early crop growth period.
Why is soil moisture critical when applying Strongarm?
Soil moisture is required to dissolve the water-dispersible granules, activate the herbicide molecule, and facilitate absorption by germinating weed seedlings.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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