Crystal ACM-9 Herbicide – Clodinafop Propargyl 9% + Metribuzin 20% WP for Wheat Weed Control

Crystal ACM-9 is a selective, post-emergence herbicide specially developed for wheat crops. It is a ready-mix formulation containing two powerful active ingredients: Clodinafop Propargyl 9% and Metribuzin 20% in wettable powder (WP) form. This dual-action herbicide targets both grassy weeds and broadleaf weeds in a single spray, making it a practical and time-saving solution for wheat farmers.

The product is manufactured by Crystal Crop Protection Ltd and includes a safener (Cloquintocet mexyl 2.25% w/w) that helps protect the wheat crop while the active ingredients work on the weeds. Clodinafop Propargyl belongs to the Aryloxyphenoxy propionate chemical group and targets grassy weeds like Phalaris minor (canary grass) and wild oats. Metribuzin belongs to the Triazinone group and controls broadleaf weeds such as Chenopodium album (bathua), Melilotus spp., Medicago spp., Vicia sativa, Cronopus didymus, Rumex spp., and Dinebra retroflexa. Together, they provide wide-spectrum weed control that helps wheat crops grow without competition for nutrients, water, and sunlight.

Crystal ACM-9 works through both foliar and soil activity. When sprayed, it is absorbed by weed leaves and shoots and moves through the plant to stop growth at the root level. This dual mode of action also helps reduce the risk of weed resistance, which is a growing problem in wheat fields across India. The recommended dosage is 240 g per acre, applied when weeds are at the 2–4 leaf stage for best results. With proper use, farmers can expect cleaner fields, healthier crops, and better yields.

Key Benefits

• Controls both grassy weeds (Phalaris minor, wild oats) and broadleaf weeds (bathua, senji, and others) in one spray – saves time and labour
• Dual-action formula works through leaves and soil, providing thorough weed control from root to shoot
• Contains safener (Cloquintocet mexyl) that protects wheat crop from herbicide stress, ensuring crop safety
• Helps manage resistant weed populations like Phalaris minor by combining two different modes of action
• Reduces weed competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight – leading to better crop health and higher yield
• Easy-to-use wettable powder formulation mixes well with water for uniform spray coverage
• Single post-emergence application at the right stage reduces the need for multiple sprays

How It Works

Crystal ACM-9 uses two different modes of action to control a wide range of weeds effectively. Clodinafop Propargyl works by inhibiting the acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) enzyme, which is essential for fatty acid synthesis in grassy weeds. Without fatty acids, the weed cells cannot form new membranes, and the growing points of the weed stop developing. This leads to the gradual death of grassy weeds like Phalaris minor and wild oats within a few days of application.

Metribuzin, on the other hand, works by inhibiting photosynthesis in broadleaf weeds. It blocks the electron transport chain in the chloroplasts, stopping the weed from converting sunlight into energy. Without energy, the weed cannot grow and eventually dies. Metribuzin has both foliar and soil activity – it is absorbed by weed leaves and also taken up by roots from the soil, providing residual control of germinating weeds.

When applied together, these two active ingredients provide complementary weed control. Clodinafop Propargyl moves systemically within the weed (translocated to growing points), while Metribuzin works both on contact and through soil uptake. This combination ensures that even hard-to-kill weeds are controlled from multiple angles. The safener Cloquintocet mexyl in the formulation helps the wheat crop metabolise the herbicide faster, making the treatment selective and safe for wheat.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Product Name	Crystal ACM-9
Active Ingredients	Clodinafop Propargyl 9% w/w + Metribuzin 20% w/w
Safener	Cloquintocet mexyl 2.25% w/w
Formulation Type	Wettable Powder (WP)
Chemical Group	Aryloxyphenoxy propionate (Clodinafop) + Triazinone (Metribuzin)
Mode of Action	ACCase inhibitor (Clodinafop) + Photosynthesis inhibitor (Metribuzin)
Product Type	Selective, Post-Emergence Herbicide
Manufacturer	Crystal Crop Protection Ltd
Pack Size Available	240 g pack
HSN Code	380893

Recommended Dosage & Application

Crop	Target Weeds	Dosage per Acre	Water Volume	Application Stage
Wheat	Phalaris minor, Chenopodium album, Melilotus spp., Medicago spp., Vicia sativa, Cronopus didymus, Rumex spp., Dinebra retroflexa	240 g	120 litres	Post-emergence, 2–4 leaf stage of weeds

Method: Mix 240 g of ACM-9 in 120 litres of clean water per acre. Stir thoroughly to make a uniform suspension. Spray evenly using a flat-fan nozzle (TKVP-4 recommended) for uniform coverage over the crop and weeds.

When to Use

Crystal ACM-9 should be applied as a post-emergence spray when weeds are young and actively growing – typically at the 2–4 leaf stage. This is the most effective window because young weeds are more sensitive to herbicides and easier to control. Applying at this stage also prevents weeds from competing with the wheat crop during the critical early growth period.

The ideal time for application in wheat is usually 25–35 days after sowing, depending on weed emergence and local conditions. Ensure the field has adequate moisture for good herbicide activity. Avoid spraying during very hot, dry, or windy conditions, as this can reduce effectiveness and cause spray drift. Do not apply if rain is expected within 4–6 hours of spraying, as it may wash off the herbicide before it is absorbed by the weeds.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Wear protective gear: Put on gloves, a mask, goggles, and long-sleeved clothing before handling the product.
2. Measure the correct dose: Take 240 g of Crystal ACM-9 for each acre of wheat crop.
3. Prepare the spray solution: Fill the spray tank with half the required water (60 litres per acre). Add the measured herbicide while stirring continuously. Then add the remaining water (60 litres) and mix thoroughly until the powder is fully dissolved and uniform.
4. Check spray equipment: Use a flat-fan nozzle (TKVP-4 recommended) for even coverage. Ensure the sprayer is clean and calibrated.
5. Spray evenly: Apply the mixture uniformly over the crop, ensuring good coverage of weed foliage. Avoid over-spraying or missing patches.
6. Post-application care: Avoid entering the treated field for at least 24 hours after spraying (re-entry period). Do not disturb the field for a few days for best results.
7. Clean equipment: Rinse the spray tank and nozzles thoroughly with clean water after use. Dispose of rinse water in the treated field, not near water bodies.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear gloves, mask, goggles, and protective clothing while mixing and spraying the herbicide
• Avoid inhalation of dust while measuring and mixing the powder
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the product
• Keep the product away from children, pets, food, and animal feed
• Store in a cool, dry place in the original container, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Avoid spray drift to nearby sensitive crops, water bodies, and non-target vegetation
• Do not spray under strong wind conditions
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling
• Dispose of empty containers responsibly – do not reuse for any purpose

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Crystal ACM-9 contains a safener (Cloquintocet mexyl 2.25% w/w) that helps protect the wheat crop from herbicide injury. When used as per recommended dosage and application guidelines, the product is safe for wheat. However, over-application, spraying at the wrong crop stage, or adverse weather conditions may cause temporary crop stress. Symptoms may include slight yellowing or stunting, which usually resolves as the crop recovers. Always follow label directions to minimise any risk of phytotoxicity.

PHI / REI & Storage

• Re-entry Interval (REI): 24 hours after spraying
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in original container, tightly closed, and away from food, feed, and children.