Crystal Sunrice Herbicide - Ethoxysulfuron 15% WDG for Selective Weed Control in Transplanted Rice

Crystal Sunrice is a selective, post-emergence herbicide designed specifically for weed management in transplanted rice. Its active ingredient, Ethoxysulfuron 15% WDG (Water Dispersible Granules), belongs to the sulfonyl urea group of herbicides. Sunrice targets and controls a wide range of sedges and broad-leaved weeds that compete with rice crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight. It is a quick-acting herbicide that gives farmers flexibility in application timing after weeds have emerged in the field.

Sunrice is particularly effective against difficult-to-control weeds like Monochoria vaginalis, Scirpus species, and various annual sedges including Cyperus rotundus, Cyperus difformis, and Cyperus iria. The product works at very low doses due to its sulfonyl urea chemistry, making it both economical and efficient. When combined with a grass herbicide like Ricestar (Rice star) as a tank mix, Sunrice can provide total weed control in rice fields. It is classified under HRAC Group B and carries a Blue toxicity label, indicating relatively low toxicity when used as directed.

For best results, Sunrice should be applied as an early post-emergence spray at 5-10 days after transplanting (DAT) of rice. The field should be properly prepared, excess water drained, and the soil surface kept moist at the time of application. After spraying, the field should be flooded after 24 hours. This herbicide is absorbed mainly through the leaves and translocated within the weed plant, leading to growth inhibition and complete death within 3-4 weeks of application.

Key Benefits

• Selective action – Controls weeds without harming the transplanted rice crop, ensuring crop safety.
• Post-emergence flexibility – Can be applied after weeds have emerged, giving farmers control over application timing.
• Excellent control of tough weeds – Effectively manages hard-to-control weeds like Monochoria vaginalis, Scirpus species, and annual sedges.
• Low-dose efficiency – Works at very low application rates due to its sulfonyl urea composition, making it cost-effective.
• Quick action on sedges and broad-leaved weeds – Provides fast visible results on target weeds in the field.
• Compatible for tank mixing – Can be combined with grass herbicides like Ricestar for broader spectrum weed control.
• Improved crop yield – By reducing weed competition, Sunrice helps rice plants grow better and produce higher yields.

How It Works

Sunrice herbicide contains Ethoxysulfuron, an active ingredient from the sulfonyl urea group of herbicides. When sprayed on weeds, Ethoxysulfuron is mainly taken up by the leaves and then translocated (moved) within the weed plant to other parts. The herbicide works by inhibiting the enzyme acetolactate synthase (ALS), which is essential for the production of certain amino acids needed for plant growth.

After application, the first visible signs are chlorotic (yellow) patches that develop on the leaves. These patches spread initially upward (acropetally) and then downward (basipetally) within the plant. The weed stops growing soon after application, and the full effect of the herbicide is seen about 3-4 weeks later, when the entire weed plant dies. Because Sunrice is a selective herbicide, it targets only the weeds and does not harm the rice crop when used as directed.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Dosage & Application

Dilution guidance (as per farmer practice):

• 0.2 gm per litre of water
• 40 gm in 200 litres of water per acre
• 3 gm per 15-litre knapsack sprayer

Application instructions:

• Use a high-volume knapsack sprayer for effective coverage.
• Mix a spreader or sticker (adjuvant) with Sunrice for better results.
• Apply on emerging and actively growing weeds for best effectiveness.

When to Use

Sunrice should be applied as an early post-emergence treatment at 5-10 days after transplanting (DAT) of rice. This is the ideal window when weeds have emerged and are actively growing, but before they become too large and competitive with the rice crop.

Choose a non-windy day with no rain in the forecast to avoid spray drift and washing away. The cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, are ideal for spraying. Apply when the soil surface is moist but excess water has been drained from the field. The herbicide works best on actively growing weeds, so timely application within the recommended window is important for effective control.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Prepare the field: Ensure thorough land preparation before transplanting rice.
2. Drain excess water: At the time of application, drain out excess water from the field so the soil surface is moist but not flooded.
3. Prepare the spray solution: Mix the recommended dose of Sunrice (40 gm per acre or as per dosage table) in the required amount of water. Add a spreader or sticker adjuvant if available.
4. Mix thoroughly: Stir the solution well to ensure the granules dissolve completely in water.
5. Spray uniformly: Apply the solution uniformly on the soil surface and on emerged weeds using a knapsack sprayer with a flat fan nozzle.
6. Flood the field: After 24 hours of application, flood the field with water as per normal rice cultivation practice.
7. Monitor: Observe the field for weed control. Full effect is seen within 3-4 weeks of application.

Compatibility

Sunrice can be mixed with grass herbicides like Ricestar (Rice star) as a tank mix to provide total weed control in rice, covering both broad-leaved weeds/sedges and grassy weeds. It is recommended to seek expert advice or follow label claims before mixing with any other chemicals. Always perform a jar test before large-scale mixing to check compatibility.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear protective gloves, mask, and goggles while handling and spraying the herbicide.
• Avoid inhalation of the spray mist and contact with skin or eyes.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or applying the product.
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after use.
• Keep the product away from children, food, feed, and water sources.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Avoid spray drift to nearby non-target crops, water bodies, and grazing areas.
• Since Sunrice is a broad-spectrum herbicide, spray during early morning or late afternoon to minimize impact on beneficial insects and pollinators.
• Dispose of empty containers safely – do not reuse for any purpose.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Sunrice is a selective herbicide and is safe for transplanted rice when used at the recommended dosage and timing. However, as with all sulfonyl urea herbicides, incorrect dosage or application timing may cause crop injury. Always follow the recommended dosage and application guidelines. Sunrice can be harmful to beneficial insects and aquatic organisms if applied incorrectly or if spray drift occurs. To reduce risk, avoid spraying during peak pollinator activity hours.

PHI / REI & Storage

• Shelf life: Product purchased guarantees minimum 6 months of shelf life from the date of delivery.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
• Storage temperature: Store at room temperature, away from extreme heat or cold.