Classification of Weedicides in Indian Agriculture
Weedicides are categorized based on their application timing, selectivity, and translocation characteristics in crop ecosystems.
Selecting the correct category prevents competitive nutrient loss while safeguarding crops from chemical injury.
- Selective weedicides (चयनात्मक खरपतवार नाशक): Eliminate specific weeds while leaving the commercial crop unharmed (e.g., 2,4-D in wheat, Atrazine in maize, Pendimethalin in pulses).
- Non-selective weedicides (अचयनात्मक खरपतवार नाशक): Destroy all vegetative green matter upon contact; used for non-cropped areas and bunds (e.g., Glyphosate, Paraquat).
- Pre-emergence (बुआई के तुरंत बाद / अंकुरण से पहले): Applied immediately after sowing before weed seedlings emerge from the soil.
- Post-emergence (अंकुरण के बाद): Applied directly onto growing weed foliage when target weeds have 2 to 4 leaves.
Safe Application Techniques and Spray Equipment
Herbicide efficacy depends directly on accurate water volume calibration and correct nozzle selection.
Using dedicated sprayers for herbicides prevents accidental contamination of subsequent fungicide or insecticide sprays.
- Use flat fan or floodjet nozzles that deliver coarse droplets, avoiding fine mist that drifts onto neighboring sensitive crops.
- Ensure adequate soil moisture is present during application; dry soil reduces chemical activation and root uptake.
- Wear protective boots, gloves, and a face mask during measuring and spraying.
Official source
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Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the Hindi meaning of weedicide?
In Hindi, weedicide is termed खरपतवार नाशक (Kharpatwar Nashak) or तृणनाशक (Trinnashak), referring to chemicals used to destroy weeds.
What is the difference between selective and non-selective weedicides?
Selective weedicides kill specific weeds without damaging the main crop, whereas non-selective weedicides kill all green vegetation upon contact.
Which spray nozzle is recommended for applying weedicides?
A flat fan nozzle or floodjet nozzle is recommended because it delivers uniform, coarse droplets that minimize drift.
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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