IIL Himil Gold Metalaxyl 35% WS Fungicide – Systemic Seed Treatment for Downy Mildew & Damping-Off

IIL Himil Gold is a systemic fungicide containing Metalaxyl 35% WS (Wet Slurry), developed by Insecticides India Limited for effective seed treatment and soil-borne disease control. It is a combination of systemic and contact action fungicide that works both as a preventive and curative solution, providing long-duration protection to crops during their early growth stages.

The active ingredient Metalaxyl belongs to the Phenylamide chemical group and works by disrupting protein synthesis inside fungal cells, stopping spore germination and infection spread. Himil Gold delivers dual-action protection—internally through systemic absorption as the plant takes up the fungicide, and externally by forming a protective barrier on the seed and plant surface. This ensures lasting control against tough fungal diseases such as downy mildew, damping-off, white rust, and black shank.

Himil Gold is widely used across India as a seed treatment for crops like maize, bajra, sorghum, sunflower, and mustard. It is also used as a foliar spray on crops like grapes, tobacco, potato, and black pepper. The wet slurry formulation ensures uniform seed coating, giving farmers healthier seedlings, lower disease incidence, and ultimately better yields with minimal reapplication.

Key Benefits

• Dual-action protection: systemic absorption inside the plant plus external protective shield on seed and plant surface
• Controls major fungal diseases including downy mildew, damping-off, white rust, and black shank effectively
• Works as both preventive and curative solution, giving farmers flexibility in application timing
• Provides long-duration protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication
• Wet slurry formulation ensures uniform coating on seeds for consistent protection
• Strengthens seedling growth and overall plant vigor, leading to healthier crop establishment
• Suitable for multiple crops across different growing seasons and regions

How It Works

Himil Gold contains Metalaxyl 35% WS, a systemic fungicide from the Phenylamide chemical group. When applied as a seed treatment, the active ingredient is absorbed by the germinating seed and moves upward through the plant's vascular system (xylem). This systemic movement ensures the fungicide reaches all parts of the young seedling, providing internal protection against fungal infections.

Metalaxyl works by inhibiting protein synthesis in fungal cells, specifically targeting RNA polymerase I, which is essential for fungal growth and reproduction. This disrupts spore germination and stops the spread of infection within plant tissues. The dual-action nature of Himil Gold means it provides both internal systemic protection (through plant uptake) and external protection (through the protective barrier formed on the seed and plant surface). This two-pronged approach ensures that even if some fungal spores escape the external barrier, the internal systemic action stops them from establishing infection.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Brand	Himil Gold
Manufacturer	Insecticides India Limited (IIL)
Active Ingredient	Metalaxyl 35% WS
Chemical Group	Phenylamide
Mode of Action	Systemic, inhibits protein synthesis in fungi
Formulation Type	Wet Slurry (WS)
Target Diseases	Downy mildew, damping-off, white rust, black shank
HSN Code	380892

Recommended Dosage & Application

Crop	Target Disease	Dosage (per 100 kg seed)
Maize	Sorghum downy mildew	700 g
Bajra (Pearl Millet)	Downy mildew	600 g
Sorghum (Jowar)	Downy mildew	600 g
Sunflower	Downy mildew	600 g
Mustard	White rust	600 g

For foliar spray on crops like grapes, tobacco, potato, and black pepper: Use 2.5 g per litre of water.

When to Use

Himil Gold is most effective when used as a seed treatment before sowing. Apply it during the pre-sowing stage to protect seeds and germinating seedlings from soil-borne and seed-borne fungal diseases. The treatment provides protection for 3–4 months, depending on the crop variety and environmental conditions.

For foliar spray applications on crops like grapes, tobacco, potato, and black pepper, apply at the first sign of disease symptoms or as a preventive measure during periods of high humidity and favourable conditions for fungal disease development. Early application gives the best results as the product works both preventively and curatively.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Wear protective equipment—gloves, goggles, and mask—before handling Himil Gold fungicide.
2. Measure the required dosage based on the crop and seed quantity (see dosage table above).
3. Mix 600–700 g of Himil Gold in 0.75–1.0 litre of water per 100 kg of seed to form a consistent wet slurry.
4. Stir thoroughly until the slurry is uniform with no lumps.
5. Pour the slurry over the seeds in a clean container and mix well to ensure every seed is evenly coated.
6. Spread the treated seeds on a clean surface and allow them to dry in shade. Do not dry in direct sunlight.
7. Sow the treated seeds as per standard crop guidelines and recommended spacing.
8. Clean all tools and equipment with detergent and water after use. Do not wash near water bodies.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear full protective clothing including gloves, goggles, and a mask during handling and application
• Avoid direct contact with skin and inhalation of the slurry or dust
• Store Himil Gold away from children, food items, animal feed, and drinking water
• Do not dispose of leftover solution or empty containers near water bodies, ponds, or wells
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling
• In case of accidental ingestion or exposure, seek immediate medical attention
• No specific antidote is available. Treat symptoms as per medical advice

PHI / REI & Storage

Protection Period: Provides protection for 3–4 months depending on crop variety and environmental conditions.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Keep in original container with lid tightly closed. Do not store near food, feed, or water sources.