HPM Freedom – Metsulfuron Methyl 20% WP Selective Systemic Herbicide for Wheat, Rice & Sugarcane

HPM Freedom is a selective, systemic post-emergence herbicide containing Metsulfuron Methyl 20% WP (Wettable Powder). It is designed to control a wide range of broadleaf and grassy weeds in major crops like wheat, rice (paddy), and sugarcane. As a post-emergence herbicide, it is applied after the crop has emerged and weeds are actively growing, making it a practical choice for farmers looking to clean their fields during the cropping season.

The active ingredient, Metsulfuron Methyl, belongs to the sulfonylurea chemical group and works by inhibiting the ALS (acetolactate synthase) enzyme in weeds. This stops cell division and growth rapidly, causing weeds to stop growing within days and die off within 2–4 weeks. The herbicide is absorbed through both roots and foliage and moves (translocates) to the growing points of the weed, ensuring complete control from inside out.

HPM Freedom is safe for the target crops when used at the recommended dose. It is effective against stubborn weeds like Chenopodium album (bathua), Cyperus rotundus (motha), Convolvulus arvensis (hirankhuri), Parthenium, and many others. With a low dosage requirement of just 8 grams per acre, it offers good value and ease of use for Indian farmers.

Key Benefits

• Selective weed control: Targets only harmful broadleaf and grassy weeds without damaging wheat, rice, or sugarcane crops when used at recommended dose.
• Systemic action: Absorbed by roots and leaves, then moves throughout the weed to stop growth from the inside — ensures complete control, not just surface-level.
• Rapid results: Weeds stop growing within 2–3 days of application, with visible drying and death occurring within 1–4 weeks.
• Low dosage requirement: Only 8 grams per acre needed, making it economical and easy to handle.
• Wide spectrum of weed control: Effective against many common and tough weeds including bathua, motha, hirankhuri, satyanashi, and parthenium.
• Cleaner fields for better yield: By removing weed competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight, the crop grows stronger and produces higher yield potential.
• Safe for neighbouring crops: When used as directed, it is safe for surrounding broad-leaved and other crops.

How It Works

HPM Freedom contains Metsulfuron Methyl, which is a systemic herbicide belonging to the sulfonylurea group. When sprayed on weeds, it is quickly absorbed through the leaves and also taken up by the roots from the soil. Once inside the weed, it moves (translocates) to the growing points — the tips of roots, stems, and shoots where new cells are formed.

The active ingredient works by blocking the ALS (acetolactate synthase) enzyme. This enzyme is essential for producing certain amino acids that weeds need to grow and divide. When this enzyme is inhibited, the weed cannot produce these amino acids, and cell division stops almost immediately. As a result, the weed stops growing within 2–3 days. Visible symptoms like yellowing, stunting, and wilting appear within a week, and complete death of the weed occurs within 2–4 weeks, depending on weed species and environmental conditions.

Because the herbicide moves systemically within the weed, even parts of the weed that did not receive direct spray are affected. This makes HPM Freedom highly effective against perennial and deep-rooted weeds that are difficult to control with contact herbicides alone.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Product Name	HPM Freedom
Active Ingredient	Metsulfuron Methyl 20% WP
Formulation Type	Wettable Powder (WP)
Chemical Group	Sulfonylurea
Mode of Action	ALS Inhibitor (Systemic)
Selectivity	Selective
Time of Application	Post-emergence
Toxicity Classification	Green (safe category)
Brand	HPM Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd.
Country of Origin	India

Recommended Dosage & Application

Crop	Target Weeds	Dosage per Acre	Water Volume
Wheat	Chenopodium album, Melilotus indica, Vicia sativa, Convolvulus arvensis, Anagallis arvensis, Lathyrus aphaca	8 gm	200–240 litres
Rice (Paddy)	Cyperus rotundus, Cyperus iria, Ludwigia parviflora, Marsilea quadrifolia, Sphaenoclea sp., Commelina benghalensis, Caesulia axillaris	8 gm	200–240 litres
Sugarcane	Trianthema sp., Commelina benghalensis, Parthenium hysterophorus, Digera arvensis	8 gm	200–240 litres

Dilution guide for small sprayers:

• 0.05 gm per litre of water
• 0.8 gm per 15-litre knapsack sprayer tank

Application method: Foliar spray using a knapsack sprayer fitted with a flat fan or flood jet nozzle. Ensure uniform coverage of the weeds.

When to Use

HPM Freedom is a post-emergence herbicide, meaning it should be applied after the crop has emerged and weeds are actively growing. The ideal timing for application is:

• For wheat: Spray at 25–30 days after sowing, or 10 days after the first irrigation.
• For rice (paddy): Apply when weeds are young and actively growing, typically 20–30 days after transplanting or sowing.
• For sugarcane: Apply as a post-emergence spray when weeds are in their early growth stage.

For best results, apply when soil moisture is adequate and weeds are small and actively growing. Avoid spraying during heavy rain or when rain is expected within 4–6 hours, as this may reduce effectiveness. The herbicide works best in warm, humid conditions that favour weed growth.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Calculate the required quantity: For one acre, measure exactly 8 grams of HPM Freedom. For smaller areas, use 0.8 gm per 15-litre spray tank.
2. Prepare the spray solution: Fill the spray tank with half the required water. Add the measured quantity of HPM Freedom powder and stir well until fully dissolved. Add the remaining water and mix thoroughly.
3. Check the sprayer: Ensure the knapsack sprayer is clean and fitted with a flat fan or flood jet nozzle. Check for leaks and proper pressure.
4. Spray uniformly: Apply the solution as a foliar spray, ensuring even coverage over the weeds. Do not over-spray or allow runoff.
5. Clean the sprayer: After use, rinse the sprayer thoroughly with clean water. Do not dispose of rinse water near water bodies or wells.
6. Post-application care: Do not disturb the field for at least 24 hours after spraying. Avoid irrigation for 24–48 hours to allow the herbicide to be absorbed by the weeds.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, mask, and goggles while mixing and spraying.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke during handling and application.
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after use.
• Keep the product away from children, pets, food, and animal feed.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Avoid spray drift onto neighbouring crops, especially broad-leaved vegetables and pulses.
• Do not apply directly on or near water bodies to avoid contamination.
• Dispose of empty containers safely — do not reuse for any purpose.

PHI / REI & Storage

• Waiting period (PHI): 80 days before harvest (for applicable crops).
• Shelf life: Store in original packaging in a cool, dry place. Use before the expiry date mentioned on the product label.
• Storage conditions: Keep away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Store separately from food, feed, and household items.