HPM Gadar Herbicide - Pendimethalin 30% EC for Pre-Emergence Weed Control in Wheat, Soybean & Cotton

HPM Gadar is a pre-emergence selective herbicide containing Pendimethalin 30% EC, belonging to the dinitroaniline chemical group. It is designed to control annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in a wide range of crops including wheat, soybean, cotton, chilli, potato, maize, pea, carrot, cabbage, and onion. This herbicide works by forming a chemical barrier on the soil surface that stops weed seeds from germinating and emerging, giving your crop a clean start during its most important early growth phase.

As a selective pre-emergence herbicide, HPM Gadar targets weeds without harming the crop when used correctly. It is absorbed by the roots and shoots of germinating weeds and disrupts cell division, causing the weed seedlings to die before they can emerge from the soil. This makes it an effective tool for integrated weed management programs, reducing the need for manual weeding and helping farmers save on labour costs. The product is available in an emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulation and is registered under CIR-40327/2002-Pendimethalin (EC) (223)-11.

Key Benefits

• Pre-emergence weed control: Stops annual grasses and broadleaf weeds before they emerge, giving crops a clean start.
• Selective action: Safe for recommended crops like wheat, soybean, cotton, chilli, and more when used as directed.
• Reduces labour costs: One spray can replace 8-10 days of manual weeding, saving significant time and money.
• Broad-spectrum control: Targets both grassy weeds (like Echinochloa, Phalaris minor) and broadleaf weeds (like Amaranthus, Chenopodium).
• Long-lasting protection: Creates a chemical barrier in the top 1-2 inches of soil that stays active for weeks.
• Supports integrated weed management: Works well as part of a complete weed control program without harming the crop.

How It Works

HPM Gadar contains Pendimethalin, which belongs to the dinitroaniline class of herbicides. Its mode of action is inhibition of microtubule assembly (IRAC MoA Code: K1). When sprayed on the soil surface immediately after sowing, the herbicide forms a thin, uniform chemical layer in the top 1-2 inches of soil. This layer acts as a barrier.

As weed seeds begin to germinate, their young roots and shoots come into contact with this treated soil layer and absorb the chemical. Pendimethalin then stops cell division (mitosis) in the growing points of the weed seedling. Without the ability to divide and grow cells, the weed cannot develop proper roots or shoots. The seedling dies before it can emerge from the soil surface.

Because crop seeds are sown deeper than this chemical barrier, their root systems grow below the treated layer and remain safe. The herbicide is absorbed primarily by the roots and shoots of germinating weeds, making it most effective when applied before weeds emerge. It does not kill established weeds — it prevents new ones from sprouting.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Dosage & Application

Note: For knapsack sprayer (16 litres capacity), use 100 ml per tank. Always use high water volume (200 litres per acre) for uniform soil coverage. Apply immediately after sowing as a pre-emergence spray on moist soil.

When to Use

HPM Gadar must be applied as a pre-emergence treatment — within 0 to 3 days after sowing. The ideal time is immediately after sowing but before the crop seeds germinate and before any weeds emerge. The soil must have adequate moisture at the time of application for the herbicide to form an effective chemical barrier. If the soil is dry, the herbicide will not activate properly and weed control will be poor.

This early application window is critical because Pendimethalin works by stopping weed seeds from germinating. Once weeds have already emerged above the soil surface, this product will not control them. For best results, apply when the weather is calm (to avoid spray drift) and when rain is not expected immediately after spraying, as heavy rain may disturb the chemical barrier.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Prepare the field: Ensure the field is properly prepared and crop seeds are sown at the correct depth. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
2. Wear protective gear: Put on hand gloves, a mask, goggles, and boots before handling the product.
3. Fill the spray tank: Fill the spray tank halfway with clean water.
4. Add the herbicide: Measure the required dose (100 ml per 16L sprayer or as per per-acre dosage) and add it gradually to the tank while stirring.
5. Mix thoroughly: Fill the remaining water and mix well to ensure uniform suspension.
6. Use correct nozzle: Use a Flat Fan or Flood Jet nozzle. Do not use cone nozzles as they cause spray drift.
7. Apply uniformly: Spray evenly over the entire soil surface immediately after sowing. Ensure complete coverage for a uniform chemical barrier.
8. Clean equipment: Wash the spray tank and all equipment thoroughly after use. Dispose of empty containers responsibly.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear hand gloves, mask, goggles, and boots while mixing and applying the product.
• Do not smoke, eat, or drink during application.
• Avoid skin and eye contact. In case of contact, wash immediately with plenty of water.
• Store the product in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and out of reach of children.
• Keep away from food, feed, and drinking water.
• Avoid spray drift to water bodies, as Pendimethalin is toxic to fish and aquatic life.
• Do not use in areas where aquaculture or pisciculture is practiced alongside rice cultivation.
• Wash hands and face thoroughly with soap and water after handling the product.
• Seek medical attention immediately in case of accidental ingestion or exposure.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Pendimethalin is toxic to fish and aquatic organisms. Do not allow the product to enter water bodies, ponds, or drainage systems. Avoid use near fish ponds or areas where aquaculture is practiced. The EC formulation is orange in colour and may stain skin, clothes, and equipment — this also helps the user see where the spray has been applied.

PHI / REI & Storage

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. Store away from food, feed, and animal feed. Keep out of reach of children and unauthorized persons.