Crystal Treat Fungicide (Tebuconazole 2% DS) – Seed Treatment for Wheat & Groundnut Diseases

Key Benefits

• Effective seed-borne disease control: Targets deep-seated fungal pathogens like Loose Smut and Flag Smut in wheat, and Collar Rot, Stem Rot, and Root Rot in groundnut.
• Systemic protection from germination: The fungicide is absorbed by the seed and moves upward through the growing seedling, providing internal protection during early growth stages.
• Long-lasting defense: Offers extended protection for several weeks after germination, bridging the gap until foliar sprays are needed.
• Better crop stand and germination: By controlling soil-borne and seed-borne rotting fungi, it helps ensure uniform germination and a healthy plant population.
• Cost-effective disease insurance: A low-dose seed treatment (1-2 g per kg of seed) prevents severe crop loss at a very low cost compared to treating diseases later.
• Visual coverage indicator: The pink/red colour coating on treated seeds confirms even application and warns that seeds are treated and not for consumption.

How It Works

Crystal Treat contains Tebuconazole 2% DS, a systemic fungicide from the Triazole chemical group. It belongs to Group 3 (Demethylation Inhibitors or DMI) as per the IRAC Mode of Action classification. When applied as a seed dressing, the powder coats the seed surface. Once the seed is sown, soil moisture activates the fungicide, allowing it to penetrate the seed coat.

As the seedling begins to grow, the active ingredient moves upward (acropetally) through the plant's vascular tissues. This systemic movement means the fungicide travels inside the plant, reaching growing points and protecting the young seedling from within. It targets dormant fungal mycelium—such as the Loose Smut fungus hidden inside the wheat embryo—and destroys it before the infection can spread. This creates a protective "zone" around the germinating seed and developing seedling, ensuring healthy establishment right from the start.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Brand Name	Crystal Treat (by Crystal Crop Protection)
Technical Content	Tebuconazole 2% DS
Formulation Type	DS (Dustable Powder for Seed Treatment)
Chemical Group	Triazole
IRAC Mode of Action Code	Group 3 (Demethylation Inhibitors)
Toxicity Label	Blue (Moderately Toxic)
HSN Code	3808
GST Slab	18%

Recommended Dosage & Application

The Golden Rule: Always follow the dose per kg of seed for accurate results.

Crop	Target Disease	Dose (g per kg seed)	Dose (g per acre seed load)
Wheat	Loose Smut, Flag Smut	1.0 – 2.0 g	40 – 80 g
Groundnut	Collar Rot, Stem Rot, Root Rot	1.0 – 2.0 g	40 – 80 g
Other Cereals	General seed-borne diseases	2.0 g	Depends on seed rate

Water volume: Use sufficient water to coat the seeds evenly. No fixed water-to-acre ratio—just enough to help the powder stick uniformly.

PHI (Pre-Harvest Interval): Not applicable, as this is a seed treatment applied before sowing. However, treated seeds must never be used for food, feed, or oil extraction.

When to Use

Crystal Treat should be applied as a seed dressing immediately before sowing for best results. The treatment is most effective when done just prior to planting, as this ensures the fungicide is fresh and active when the seed germinates. Since it targets seed-borne and soil-borne fungal pathogens, the ideal time is during the pre-sowing seed preparation stage. Do not treat seeds too far in advance and store them for long periods before sowing.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Prepare the equipment: Use a Rotary Seed Dresser (mechanical drum) for large quantities, or a clean plastic bag, earthen pot, or metal container for small quantities.
2. Measure the seeds: Weigh the required quantity of seeds accurately.
3. Measure the fungicide: Weigh the correct dose of Crystal Treat powder based on seed weight (1-2 g per kg of seed).
4. Mix the seeds and powder: Place the seeds in the container or bag. Add the measured fungicide powder.
5. Shake or rotate: Close the container/bag and rotate, shake, or tumble for 3-5 minutes until all seeds are uniformly coated with a pink/red colour.
6. Check coverage: The pink/red colour indicates proper and even application. If some seeds are not coloured, continue mixing.
7. Sow immediately: Plant the treated seeds as soon as possible after treatment. Do not use treated seeds for food, feed, or oil.
8. Clean up: Dispose of empty packaging safely. Wash hands and equipment thoroughly after use.

Precautions & Safety

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear gloves, a dust mask, and goggles while handling and mixing the fungicide.
• Avoid skin contact: Do not mix the powder with bare hands. The pink dye can stain skin and the chemical can be absorbed.
• Wash after use: Wash hands, face, and any exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling treated seeds or the product.
• Do not consume: Treated seeds are toxic. Never use them for food, feed, flour, or oil extraction. Keep them separate from untreated grain.
• Keep away from children and animals: Store the product and treated seeds in a safe place out of reach.
• Pregnant women: Should avoid handling this product due to potential reproductive risks associated with Tebuconazole.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place away from food, feed, and water sources.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Crystal Treat is formulated specifically for seed treatment at recommended doses and is safe for wheat and groundnut when used as directed. Overdosing or uneven application may affect germination. The pink colour is a safety indicator—do not mistake it for spoilage. Always use the recommended dose per kg of seed; do not exceed it.

Compatibility

Crystal Treat (Tebuconazole 2% DS) is a seed treatment fungicide and should be applied alone to seeds. Do not mix with other pesticides, fertilizers, or biological inoculants (such as Rhizobium or PSB cultures) in the same seed treatment operation unless compatibility is confirmed. If using with other seed treatment products, always do a small jar test first to check for clumping, poor coating, or seed damage.