Crystal Shift Herbicide - Pretilachlor 50% EC for Transplanted Rice, Pre-emergence Weed Control

Crystal Shift is a selective, broad-spectrum pre-emergence herbicide specially developed for transplanted rice (paddy) fields. It contains Pretilachlor 50% EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate), an active ingredient from the chloroacetamide chemical group. Shift works by inhibiting growth and cell division in germinating weeds, providing effective control before weeds emerge and establish in the field.

This herbicide is designed to manage a wide range of weed types commonly found in rice paddies, including grassy weeds, broadleaf weeds, and sedges. By applying Shift within the first few days after transplanting, farmers can keep their fields weed-free during the critical early growth stages of the crop. This reduces competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight, helping the rice crop establish strongly and reach its full yield potential.

Crystal Shift is available in liquid formulation in bottle packaging sizes of 500 ml, 1 litre, and 5 litres. It is manufactured by Crystal Crop Protection Ltd., a trusted name in Indian agriculture. The recommended dosage ranges from 400 to 600 ml per acre depending on weed pressure, and it should be applied within 5 days of transplanting for best results. Shift is a CIB-registered product approved for use on transplanted paddy.

Key Benefits

• Broad-spectrum weed control — effectively manages grasses, broadleaf weeds, and sedges in one application
• Pre-emergence action stops weeds before they grow, reducing competition for nutrients and water
• Selective to transplanted rice — controls weeds without harming the crop when used as directed
• Reduces the need for manual weeding, saving labour time and cost
• Helps rice plants establish strongly in early stages, supporting better crop growth and yield
• Easy-to-use liquid EC formulation mixes readily with water for uniform application

How It Works

Crystal Shift contains Pretilachlor, an active ingredient from the chloroacetamide group of herbicides. It works by inhibiting cell division and growth in germinating weed seeds and seedlings. When applied to the soil surface shortly after transplanting, the herbicide is absorbed by the shoots and roots of emerging weeds. It interferes with protein synthesis and cell elongation, stopping weed growth at the germination stage itself — before the weeds can emerge above the soil and compete with the rice crop.

Because Shift is a pre-emergence herbicide, it is most effective when applied to moist soil before weeds have sprouted. It forms a herbicidal layer in the topsoil that targets weed seeds as they germinate. The selectivity to transplanted rice comes from the fact that rice seedlings are more tolerant to Pretilachlor at the recommended doses, while susceptible weeds are controlled effectively. This mode of action provides a clean, weed-free field during the critical first few weeks after transplanting.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Product Name	Crystal Shift
Active Ingredient	Pretilachlor 50% EC
Formulation Type	Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC)
Chemical Group	Chloroacetamide
Mode of Action	Pre-emergence, systemic — inhibits cell division and growth
Target Crop	Transplanted Rice (Paddy)
Packaging Sizes	500 ml, 1 L, 5 L bottles
Shelf Life	2 Years
Manufacturer	Crystal Crop Protection Ltd.
CIB Registration	Registered for use on transplanted paddy

Recommended Dosage & Application

Crop	Dosage (ml/acre)	Dilution	Time of Application
Transplanted Rice	400–600 ml per acre	Mix with sufficient water for uniform spray coverage	Within 5 days of transplanting

Application Method: Apply as a soil spray (foliar spray is not the intended method for pre-emergence use). Mix the required quantity of Shift with water and spray evenly on the soil surface after transplanting. Ensure the field has sufficient moisture at the time of application for best results.

When to Use

Crystal Shift should be applied within 5 days of transplanting rice seedlings. This is the critical window when weed seeds in the soil are beginning to germinate but have not yet emerged. Applying during this period ensures the herbicide reaches the weed seeds and young seedlings before they establish. The field should have adequate moisture (standing water or saturated soil) at the time of application to help the herbicide spread evenly and form an effective layer in the topsoil. Avoid application in dry soil conditions, as this reduces herbicide activity. Shift is a pre-emergence herbicide — it will not control weeds that have already emerged and grown beyond the seedling stage.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Prepare the field: After transplanting rice seedlings, ensure the field has a thin layer of water (about 2–5 cm standing water) or is sufficiently moist.
2. Measure the dose: Use 400–600 ml of Crystal Shift per acre based on weed pressure. For lighter weed pressure, use the lower dose; for heavy weed infestations, use the higher dose.
3. Mix with water: Fill the spray tank with clean water. Add the measured quantity of Shift and stir or shake well to ensure uniform mixing.
4. Apply evenly: Spray the mixture uniformly over the entire field surface. Ensure even coverage — do not concentrate spray in one area.
5. Maintain water level: After application, maintain a thin layer of standing water (2–5 cm) in the field for at least 3–5 days. Do not drain or let the field dry out during this period.
6. Follow up: Monitor the field for any weed escapes. If some weeds emerge later, consult your local agriculture expert for post-emergence options.

Precautions & Safety

• Avoid skin contact with the product. Wear protective gloves, mask, and goggles while handling and spraying.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage of 600 ml per acre.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children, pets, and livestock.
• Do not store near food, feed, or drinking water.
• Avoid spray drift to nearby sensitive crops, water bodies, and non-target areas.
• Wash hands and face thoroughly with soap and water after handling the product.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or spraying the herbicide.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Crystal Shift is selective to transplanted rice when used at the recommended dose and within the specified application window. However, applying at higher-than-recommended doses or under unfavourable conditions (such as very deep standing water or on very light/sandy soils) may cause temporary crop stress or reduced root growth. Always follow the recommended dosage and application guidelines to avoid any risk of phytotoxicity. Do not use on direct-seeded rice unless specifically recommended, as crop safety may differ.

PHI / REI & Storage

• Shelf Life: 2 years from the date of manufacture when stored under proper conditions.
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use.
• Disposal: Do not reuse empty containers for any purpose. Dispose of containers safely as per local regulations.