HPM Atrahit Atrazine 50% WP Herbicide - Selective Systemic Pre & Post-Emergence Weed Control for Maize & Sugarcane

HPM Atrahit is a selective systemic herbicide containing Atrazine 50% WP (Wettable Powder). It belongs to the Triazine chemical group and works by inhibiting photosynthesis at the Photosystem II receptor site, effectively stopping weeds from converting sunlight into energy. This herbicide is designed for use in major field crops like Maize (Corn), Sugarcane, and Potato, providing reliable control of a wide range of annual grasses and broad-leaved weeds.

Atrahit can be applied both as a pre-emergence and post-emergence treatment. It is absorbed principally through the roots and also through the foliage, then moves upward in the xylem and accumulates in the apical meristems and leaves. This dual mode of entry ensures that weeds are controlled at different growth stages. Maize and Sugarcane crops tolerate Atrazine well because they naturally contain enzymes (glutathione transferases) that rapidly detoxify the herbicide, keeping the crop safe while weeds are eliminated.

By reducing weed competition for water, sunlight, and nutrients, HPM Atrahit helps farmers achieve better crop establishment, healthier plant growth, and higher yields. It also reduces dependence on costly manual weeding labor. The product is manufactured by HPM Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd., a trusted name in Indian agriculture, and is registered under CIR-12,645/91/ATRAZINE(WP)-54.

Key Benefits

• Controls both annual grasses and broad-leaved weeds in a single application, reducing the need for multiple herbicides.
• Provides dual application flexibility — can be used as pre-emergence (before weeds appear) or early post-emergence treatment.
• Offers long-lasting residual control in the soil, keeping fields weed-free for weeks and reducing manual weeding costs.
• Systemic action through roots and foliage ensures thorough weed control even in dense weed populations.
• Safe for Maize and Sugarcane due to natural detoxification by crop enzymes, protecting yield without crop damage.
• Can be tank-mixed with other compatible herbicides for broader weed control spectrum.
• Cost-effective alternative to manual weeding, saving significant labor expenses per acre.

How It Works

HPM Atrahit works by targeting the energy production system of weeds. The active ingredient Atrazine is a photosynthetic electron transport inhibitor that acts at the Photosystem II (PSII) receptor site in plant chloroplasts. When applied to the soil as a pre-emergence treatment, the herbicide dissolves in soil moisture and is absorbed by the roots of germinating weed seedlings. It then moves upward through the xylem (the plant's water-conducting tissue) and accumulates in the leaves and growing tips (apical meristems).

Once inside the weed's leaf cells, Atrazine binds to the D1 protein in the Photosystem II complex, blocking the flow of electrons during photosynthesis. This disruption prevents the weed from producing ATP and NADPH — the energy molecules it needs to grow. As a result, highly reactive oxygen species build up inside the weed cells, destroying cell membranes and causing the weed to turn yellow (chlorosis), then brown (necrosis), and eventually die.

Maize and Sugarcane crops survive this treatment because they contain high levels of glutathione transferases (GSTs) — enzymes that rapidly break down and neutralize Atrazine before it can damage their own photosynthetic systems. This natural selectivity makes Atrahit a safe and effective choice for these crops while being lethal to susceptible weeds.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Brand Name	Atrahit (HPM)
Technical Name	Atrazine 50% WP (Wettable Powder)
Chemical Group	Triazine (Chlorotriazine)
Mode of Action	Photosystem II electron transport inhibitor (IRAC Group 5)
Formulation Type	Wettable Powder (WP)
Registration No.	CIR-12,645/91/ATRAZINE(WP)-54
Manufacturer	HPM Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd.
Toxicity Label	Blue (Moderately Toxic)
Pack Sizes Available	500 g, 1 kg

Recommended Dosage & Application

Crop	Dosage (g per Acre)	Water Volume (L per Acre)	Application Timing
Maize	400 – 800 g	200 – 280 L	Pre-emergence (0-3 days after sowing) or early post-emergence
Sugarcane	200 – 1600 g	200 – 280 L	Pre-emergence or early post-emergence

Note: Dosage varies based on weed density, soil type, and local recommendations. Heavier soils may require the higher end of the dosage range. Always follow the dose per acre for accurate results.

When to Use

For best results, apply HPM Atrahit as a pre-emergence spray within 0 to 3 days after sowing, before weeds have emerged from the soil. This timing ensures that the herbicide forms a protective layer in the soil that kills weed seedlings as they germinate. The soil should be moist at the time of application to help dissolve and activate the herbicide so it can reach weed roots effectively.

If used as a post-emergence treatment, apply at the early stage of weed growth when weeds are small and actively growing. Late application may reduce effectiveness, especially against larger, established weeds. A light irrigation after application (if soil is dry) helps activate the herbicide. Avoid application during heavy rain or when heavy rainfall is expected immediately after spraying, as this may cause leaching of the chemical.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Prepare the spray solution: Premix the required amount of Atrahit powder with a small quantity of water to form a smooth slurry or paste. This prevents clumping and ensures even mixing.
2. Fill the tank: Add the slurry to the spray tank filled with the recommended amount of water (200-280 L per acre). Keep the solution agitated or stirred continuously, as Wettable Powder settles quickly.
3. Check soil moisture: Ensure the soil is moist before spraying. If the soil is dry, plan a light irrigation after application to activate the herbicide.
4. Spray evenly: Use a Flat Fan or Flood Jet nozzle to create a uniform spray layer on the soil surface. Walk backward while spraying to avoid breaking the chemical film with your feet.
5. Post-application care: If the soil is dry, provide a light irrigation within 24-48 hours after spraying to move the herbicide into the weed root zone.
6. Clean equipment: Thoroughly wash the spray tank and nozzles after use. Do not dispose of wash water near water bodies or sensitive crops.

Compatibility

HPM Atrahit is compatible with most insecticides and can be tank-mixed with other herbicides like Pendimethalin or 2,4-D to broaden the weed control spectrum. However, always perform a physical compatibility (jar) test before mixing on a large scale. Mix only the quantity needed for immediate use. Consult a local agronomist for specific tank-mix recommendations for your crop and weed conditions.

Precautions & Safety

• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, mask, and goggles while handling and spraying.
• Do not inhale the dust while mixing the powder. Mix in a well-ventilated area.
• Wash hands, face, and all exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling or spraying.
• Keep the product away from children, livestock, food, and animal feed.
• Avoid spray drift to nearby sensitive crops like cotton, pulses, soybeans, and sunflowers, as Atrazine can damage them.
• Do not contaminate ponds, rivers, or other water bodies with the product or its leftover solution.
• Store in a cool, dry place in sealed original packaging away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Dispose of empty containers safely as per local regulations — do not reuse for any purpose.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

HPM Atrahit is selective for Maize and Sugarcane when used at recommended doses. However, it can cause severe damage or death to sensitive crops such as cotton, pulses, soybeans, sunflowers, and vegetables. Do not use on these crops. Avoid planting sensitive crops immediately after maize harvest due to potential soil residues. Always follow recommended dosage — overdose may cause crop injury even in tolerant crops.

PHI / REI & Storage

Parameter	Details
Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)	As per label instructions — consult local recommendations
Shelf Life	2 years from date of manufacture when stored properly
Storage Conditions	Store in a cool, dry place in sealed container. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

State Restriction: This product is restricted in Kerala State. Do not use or sell in Kerala.