IIL Xplode Insecticide - Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG for Cotton, Vegetables & Pulses

Xplode Insecticide by Insecticide India Limited (IIL) is a powerful pest control solution containing emamectin benzoate 5 SG, specifically designed to control lepidopteran pests like caterpillars, thrips, fruit borers, and stem borers. This systemic insecticide works through stomach action and translaminar movement, effectively targeting pests hiding under leaf surfaces. 

Xplode insecticide, developed under the trusted tractor brand, is derived from naturally occurring emamectin. It is rainfast, offers prolonged protection by forming a reservoir in plant tissue, and does not harm beneficial insects—making it compatible with integrated pest management practices.

Suitable for a wide range of crops including cotton, vegetables, and pulses, it enhances plant vigor and promotes higher yields by reducing pest stress during critical growth stages.

Key Benefits

• Instant "Lock-Jaw" action – Stops larvae from feeding within 2 hours of application, preventing further crop damage immediately.
• Translaminar movement – Penetrates leaf surfaces to reach and kill hidden pests on the underside of leaves where sprays normally miss.
• Long-lasting residual protection – Remains effective inside plant tissue for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent re-spraying.
• Rainfast in 2-4 hours – Rapid absorption means summer rains or irrigation won't wash away the product once the spray dries.
• Safe for beneficial insects – Selective action does not harm natural predators and pollinators, making it suitable for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs.
• Enhances crop health and yield – By reducing pest stress during critical growth stages, plants stay healthier and produce better yields.
• Easy-to-use Soluble Granules (SG) – Dissolves completely in water without harsh solvents, offering high efficacy at a low cost per acre.

How It Works

IIL Xplode contains Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG, which belongs to the Avermectin chemical group (IRAC Group 6 – Chloride Channel Activator). It works primarily through stomach action combined with translaminar movement.

When a larva feeds on a treated leaf, it ingests the active ingredient. Emamectin Benzoate then binds to chloride channels in the insect's nerve cells, causing a massive and uncontrolled flow of chloride ions. This leads to immediate paralysis of the insect's throat muscles – often called the "Lock-Jaw" effect. The larva stops feeding within 2 hours, even though it may remain alive for 1-2 days. Unable to eat, the pest starves and dies within 2-4 days.

Because of its translaminar property, the product penetrates the leaf tissue and creates a hidden reservoir of active ingredient inside the plant. This allows it to reach pests hiding on the underside of leaves or inside plant structures, where conventional contact sprays cannot reach. The systemic movement within the leaf tissue also provides prolonged protection against new infestations.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Dosage & Application

Note: PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval – minimum days between last spray and harvest. For vegetables with short PHI (3-5 days), Xplode is suitable for export crops when the waiting period is strictly followed.

When to Use

Apply IIL Xplode at the early larval stages (1st and 2nd instar) for best results – this is when caterpillars are small and most vulnerable. Once larvae grow larger, control becomes more difficult.

For cotton, start scouting from 30+ days after sowing. For vegetables like okra and brinjal, begin monitoring 3-4 weeks after sowing or transplanting. For pulses like chickpea and red gram, apply during the vegetative to flowering stage when pod borers are active.

Best time to spray: Early morning or late evening. Evening spraying is recommended to protect bees (which are less active at night) and to avoid UV degradation of the active ingredient. Do not spray during rain or strong wind.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Wear protective gear – Put on gloves, a mask, and goggles before handling the product.
2. Prepare the solution – Dissolve the required amount of granules (80-100 gm per acre) in a small quantity of water first to make a paste or slurry. Stir well until fully dissolved.
3. Mix in spray tank – Add the dissolved solution to the main spray tank containing the recommended amount of water (200 litres per acre). Stir thoroughly.
4. For waxy crops – On crops like cabbage, add a sticker/spreader to prevent run-off and improve coverage.
5. Spray application – Use a knapsack sprayer or tractor-mounted sprayer with a flat-fan nozzle. Ensure thorough coverage of all foliage, especially the underside of leaves where pests hide.
6. Timing – Spray in the early morning or late evening for best absorption and to protect beneficial insects.
7. Post-application – Wash the spray equipment thoroughly after use. Do not drain leftover solution near water bodies or ponds.
8. Observe PHI – Wait for the recommended pre-harvest interval (3-14 days depending on crop) before harvesting.

Compatibility

Xplode is generally compatible with most common fungicides and insecticides. However, a physical jar test is always recommended before mixing large quantities – mix small amounts of both products in a jar of water, stir, and check for any signs of clumping, separation, or precipitation before full-scale mixing.

Precautions & Safety

• Yellow Triangle product – Xplode is classified as "Highly Toxic" (Yellow Label). Handle with extreme care.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Always wear gloves, mask, and goggles during mixing and spraying.
• Hygiene – Wash hands and face thoroughly with soap and water after handling. In case of skin contact, wash immediately with plenty of water.
• Storage – Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Food safety – Do not store near food, animal feed, or drinking water.
• Environmental safety – This product is toxic to fish and bees. Do not spray near fish ponds, water bodies, or during bee foraging hours (daytime). Avoid spray drift to non-target areas.
• Disposal – Dispose of empty containers and gloves safely. Do not reuse empty containers for any purpose.

Side Effects & Phytotoxicity

Xplode is primarily a larvicide and does not kill insect eggs (no ovicidal action). You may see live larvae for 1-2 days after spraying – they will be lethargic and unable to feed. This is normal and does not mean the product has failed.

No specific antidote exists for Emamectin Benzoate poisoning. In case of accidental ingestion, seek immediate medical help. Treatment is symptomatic, and gastric lavage is often recommended by physicians.

PHI / REI & Storage