Dual active ingredients and synergistic mode of action
Saaf unites two proven chemistries to provide comprehensive disease management.
Technical breakdown of constituents:
- Carbendazim (12% WP): Systemic benzimidazole fungicide (FRAC Group 1) that inhibits beta-tubulin assembly during fungal cell division.
- Mancozeb (63% WP): Broad-spectrum contact dithiocarbamate (FRAC Group M03) that deactivates multiple fungal enzymes and halts spore germination.
- Preventive and curative action: Mancozeb protects foliage from external spore entry while Carbendazim penetrates internally to arrest developing fungal mycelium.
- Manganese and zinc supply: Mancozeb provides essential manganese and zinc trace elements, promoting leaf chlorophyll and crop health.
Target diseases, seed treatment and registered crops
Saaf is approved for foliar spraying, seed dressing, and soil drenching across major crops:
Approved applications:
- Paddy (Rice): Blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) and sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani).
- Groundnut: Tikka leaf spot (Cercospora) and collar rot.
- Chilli: Fruit rot and anthracnose dieback.
- Seed and rhizome treatment: Prevents damping-off, collar rot, and seed-borne blights in ginger, turmeric, and potato seed tubers.
- Grapes: Anthracnose and downy mildew suppression.
Application rates, pricing factors and safety precautions
Apply Saaf at CIBRC-approved rates (typically 1.5 to 2 grams per litre of water or 300 to 500 grams per acre for foliar spray; 2 to 3 grams per kg of seed for seed dressing). Retail pack costs vary across 100g, 250g, 500g, and 1kg bags at authorized dealerships. Always wear protective masks, gloves, and boots, and adhere to recommended pre-harvest waiting periods.
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 the technical composition of UPL Saaf fungicide?
Saaf contains Carbendazim 12% plus Mancozeb 63% WP.
Can Saaf fungicide be used for seed treatment?
Yes, it is widely recommended as a seed and rhizome treatment at 2 to 3 grams per kilogram of seed to prevent soil-borne fungal diseases.
Why does UPL Saaf retail price vary between stores?
Pricing depends on the package size (from 100g pouches to 1kg packs), regional transport logistics, and dealer-level discounts.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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