Crystal Extra Super Insecticide - Thiamethoxam 25% WG for Sucking Pest Control in Paddy, Cotton & Vegetables

Crystal Extra Super is a broad-spectrum systemic insecticide from Crystal Crop Protection, containing Thiamethoxam 25% WG (Water Dispersible Granules). Thiamethoxam belongs to the neonicotinoid chemical group (IRAC Group 4A) and works by disrupting the nervous system of insects, leading to paralysis and death. This insecticide is designed to effectively control a wide range of sucking pests and some stem and soil-inhabiting pests across multiple crops including paddy, cotton, vegetables, fruits, and mustard.

The product comes in a water dispersible granule (WG) formulation, which is dust-free, easy to handle, and dissolves evenly in water for uniform application. It has a Blue Triangle toxicity label (moderately hazardous) and carries the CAS number 153719-23-4. Extra Super is absorbed by the plant through both systemic and translaminar action, meaning it moves throughout the plant tissues to protect even hidden parts that direct spray may not reach. This makes it especially effective against pests that feed on the underside of leaves or inside stems.

With a dosage range of 40–80 g per acre depending on the crop and pest pressure, Extra Super offers farmers a reliable solution for managing pest infestations at the economic threshold level. The product is available in multiple pack sizes including 5 g, 100 g, 250 g, 500 g, and 1 kg bottles, making it suitable for both small and large-scale farming operations.

Key Benefits

• Broad-spectrum control – Effectively manages a wide range of sucking pests including aphids, whiteflies, jassids, thrips, brown plant hopper (BPH), white backed plant hopper (WBPH), green leaf hopper (GLH), and stem borers in one application.
• Systemic & translaminar action – The active ingredient is absorbed by the plant and moves to all parts including new growth and hidden areas, ensuring pests feeding on undersides of leaves or inside stems are also controlled.
• Rapid action – Pests stop feeding almost immediately after contact, preventing further crop damage like hopper burn in paddy, with complete mortality occurring within 24–48 hours.
• Long-lasting protection – One application provides effective pest control for up to 14–21 days, reducing the need for frequent sprays and saving labour costs.
• Weather resilient – Quickly absorbed by the plant, making it rainfast within 2–3 hours after application, so light rain does not wash off the effectiveness.
• Safer to mammals – When used as directed, Thiamethoxam 25% WG is relatively safe for mammals and does not cause harm to the applicator under normal handling conditions.
• Dust-free formulation – The WG (water dispersible granule) formulation is safer to handle and inhale compared to older powder formulations, and dissolves evenly in water for consistent coverage.

How It Works

Crystal Extra Super works through a three-stage process to eliminate pests effectively. First, when sprayed on the crop, the Thiamethoxam active ingredient is rapidly absorbed by the plant leaves and roots through systemic action. It moves upward through the plant's vascular system (xylem-mobile) and reaches all parts including new growth, young leaves, and even areas that direct spray cannot reach. This translaminar movement means the chemical penetrates leaf tissues and moves from the upper surface to the lower surface, protecting the entire plant.

Second, when a pest feeds on the treated plant by sucking sap or chewing plant tissue, the Thiamethoxam enters its body. Once inside, it binds to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the insect's nervous system. This binding causes uncontrolled nerve firing, leading to continuous excitement and overstimulation of the insect's nervous system.

Third, this overstimulation quickly leads to paralysis and eventually death of the pest. The insect stops feeding almost immediately after contact, which is critical for preventing the spread of viral diseases that sucking pests often transmit. Complete mortality typically occurs within 24–48 hours after application. Because of its systemic nature, Extra Super is particularly effective against hidden pests like stem borers and hoppers that reside at the base of plants or inside stems, where contact insecticides cannot reach.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Dosage & Application

Note: For a 15-litre knapsack sprayer, use 3–6 g of Extra Super per pump. Always follow the dose per acre for accurate results. Do not under-dose as this can lead to pest resistance.

When to Use

Apply Crystal Extra Super at the first sign of pest infestation or when pest populations reach the Economic Threshold Level (ETL). For paddy, this means when you observe 5–10 hoppers per hill. For cotton, apply when you notice aphids, jassids, thrips, or whiteflies on the crop. Do not wait for severe damage to occur, as early intervention provides the best results.

The ideal time for spraying is during the cooler hours of the day – early morning or late afternoon. Avoid spraying during peak heat hours, windy conditions, or when rain is expected. Choose a non-windy day with no rain forecast to prevent spray drift and washing away of the product. Since Extra Super is rainfast within 2–3 hours after application, light rain after this period will not significantly affect efficacy.

For paddy, ensure the spray nozzle is directed toward the base of the plant where hoppers like BPH reside. For cotton and vegetables, ensure thorough coverage of the entire plant including the underside of leaves where sucking pests often hide.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Check pest level – Inspect your crop to confirm pest infestation has reached the economic threshold level before spraying.
2. Prepare the solution – Fill the spray tank with half the required amount of clean water.
3. Pre-dissolve granules – Take the required dose of Extra Super granules in a small mug of water and stir well until fully dissolved to create a stock solution.
4. Mix in tank – Pour the dissolved stock solution into the spray tank while stirring continuously. Add the remaining water and mix thoroughly.
5. Add adjuvant (recommended) – For best results, mix a compatible spreader or sticker (adjuvant) with the spray solution to improve coverage and sticking on plant surfaces.
6. Spray evenly – Use a high-volume knapsack sprayer. Apply the spray solution uniformly over the crop, ensuring coverage of the underside of leaves and the base of the plant.
7. Clean equipment – After spraying, thoroughly wash all spray equipment with clean water. Do not dispose of wash water near water bodies or wells.
8. Post-application care – Do not enter the sprayed field until the spray has dried. Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling.

Compatibility

Extra Super is generally compatible with common fungicides such as Carbendazim and Hexaconazole, allowing farmers to treat both pests and diseases in a single spray. However, it is always recommended to conduct a small jar test before mixing on a large scale. Mix only compatible products and follow the correct mixing order: wettable powders first, then water dispersible granules, followed by emulsifiable concentrates, and adjuvants last. Avoid mixing with alkaline substances. For specific tank-mix recommendations, consult your local agriculture expert or refer to the product label.

Precautions & Safety

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Always wear gloves, mask, and goggles while handling and spraying the product. Wear full-sleeved clothing and boots during application.
• During spraying – Avoid inhalation of spray mist. Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or spraying the product. Spray in the direction of the wind to avoid drift onto yourself.
• Protect beneficial insects – Extra Super can be harmful to bees and other pollinators. Avoid spraying during flowering periods or when bees are actively foraging. Spray during early morning or late evening when bee activity is low.
• Environmental safety – Do not spray near water bodies, ponds, or wells. Prevent spray drift to neighbouring crops and non-target areas. Do not contaminate water sources with product or leftover spray solution.
• Storage – Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children, pets, and livestock. Store away from food, feed, and drinking water.
• Disposal – Do not reuse empty containers for any purpose. Dispose of containers safely as per local regulations.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

When used as per recommended dosage and application guidelines, Extra Super is safe for the target crops. However, as a broad-spectrum insecticide from the neonicotinoid group, it can be harmful to beneficial insects including pollinators like bees if applied incorrectly. To minimise risk, avoid spraying during peak flowering and active bee foraging hours. Always follow the recommended dose per acre – over-dosing may cause phytotoxicity symptoms in sensitive crops. If uncertain about crop sensitivity, spray a small test area first before full-scale application.

PHI / REI & Storage