Crystal Sikosa Herbicide - Bensulfuron Methyl 4.8% + Pretilachlor 48% OD for Paddy Weed Control

Crystal Sikosa is a powerful dual-action herbicide specially developed for weed management in paddy (rice) fields. It contains two active ingredients — Bensulfuron Methyl 4.8% and Pretilachlor 48% — in an Oil Dispersion (OD) formulation. This combination provides broad-spectrum control of grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds that commonly affect rice crops.

Sikosa works both as a pre-emergent and early post-emergent herbicide. It targets weeds at an early stage, preventing them from establishing and competing with the paddy crop for nutrients, water, and sunlight. The product is developed using Banyan Technology and offers rainfast properties with long-lasting residual action. It is a selective, systemic herbicide that is safe for recommended paddy varieties when used as per instructions.

With a recommended dosage of 500 ml per acre, Crystal Sikosa helps reduce the need for manual weeding, saves labour costs, and supports healthier crop growth leading to better yields. It is suitable for both direct-seeded and transplanted paddy.

Key Benefits

• Broad-spectrum weed control: Effectively controls a wide range of grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds in a single application.
• Dual-action protection: Two active ingredients with different modes of action provide comprehensive weed management and reduce the risk of resistance.
• Pre- and early post-emergence action: Targets weeds before they establish, giving paddy crops a clean start during the critical early growth stage.
• Rainfast and long-lasting: Developed with Banyan Technology for rainfast properties and extended residual control in the field.
• Reduces manual weeding: Minimises labour dependency and saves time and money spent on hand weeding.
• Improves crop yield: By eliminating weed competition, paddy plants get better access to nutrients, water, and sunlight for healthier growth and higher yields.
• Crop safety: Selective herbicide that is safe for recommended paddy varieties when applied at the correct dosage and timing.

How It Works

Crystal Sikosa combines two active ingredients that work through different mechanisms to control weeds effectively. Bensulfuron Methyl belongs to the sulfonylurea chemical group and acts as an ALS (acetolactate synthase) enzyme inhibitor. It stops the production of essential amino acids in broadleaf weeds and sedges, causing them to stop growing and eventually die. Pretilachlor belongs to the chloroacetamide chemical group and works as a cell division inhibitor. It prevents the germination and early growth of grasses and sedges by interfering with cell division in the shoot and root tips.

The OD (Oil Dispersion) formulation ensures good coverage and retention on the target surface. Being systemic in nature, the herbicide is absorbed by the weeds and moves within the plant to deliver complete control. The dual action — pre-emergence (stopping weed seeds from germinating) and early post-emergence (killing young emerged weeds) — provides comprehensive protection during the critical early weeks of paddy growth.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Dosage & Application

Dilution for knapsack sprayer: Mix approximately 2.5 ml per litre of water (or about 50 ml per 15-litre knapsack sprayer).

When to Use

Apply Crystal Sikosa within 0 to 5 days after transplanting paddy seedlings or after sowing in direct-seeded rice. This is the critical window when weeds start germinating but are still at an early stage. Applying at this time prevents weeds from establishing and competing with the crop.

The field should have 2–3 cm of standing water at the time of application. Maintain this water level for 5–7 days after spraying to ensure good herbicide activity and uniform distribution in the field. Apply during calm weather conditions to avoid spray drift to non-target areas. Avoid application when heavy rain is expected immediately after spraying.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Prepare the field: Ensure the paddy field has 2–3 cm of standing water before application.
2. Wear protective gear: Put on gloves, mask, and eye protection before handling the herbicide.
3. Measure the dose: Use 500 ml of Crystal Sikosa per acre of paddy field.
4. Mix with water: Fill the spray tank with 200–250 litres of clean water per acre. Add the measured herbicide and stir well to make a uniform solution. For a 15-litre knapsack, mix about 50 ml of Sikosa.
5. Spray evenly: Apply the mixture uniformly across the field, covering the soil surface and any young emerged weeds.
6. Maintain water level: Keep 2–3 cm standing water in the field for 5–7 days after application for best results.
7. Clean equipment: Rinse the spray tank and equipment thoroughly with clean water after use.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear gloves, mask, and eye protection while handling and spraying the herbicide.
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling the product.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children, livestock, and pets.
• Do not store near food items, animal feed, or drinking water.
• Avoid spray drift to sensitive crops, water bodies, and non-target areas.
• Do not apply during high winds or when rain is expected immediately.
• Dispose of empty containers safely — do not reuse for any purpose.
• If the product comes in contact with skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water.
• If ingested accidentally, seek medical advice immediately and show the product label to the doctor.

Compatibility

Crystal Sikosa is a ready-to-use herbicide formulation. It is recommended to use it alone as per the dosage instructions. Do not mix with other pesticides, fertilizers, or adjuvants unless specifically advised by an agricultural expert. Always conduct a small jar test before mixing with any other product if tank mixing is considered.

PHI / REI & Storage

• Shelf life: 2 years from the date of manufacture when stored in original, unopened container under recommended conditions.
• Storage conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and temperatures above 40°C.
• REI (Re-entry Interval): Wait until the spray solution has dried completely before re-entering the treated field.