Swastik Gladiator - Mesotrione 2.27% + Atrazine 22.7% SC Herbicide for Maize & Sugarcane

Swastik Gladiator is a selective post-emergence herbicide that combines two powerful active ingredients — Mesotrione 2.27% and Atrazine 22.7% — in a Suspension Concentrate (SC) formulation. This herbicide belongs to the Triketone + Triazine chemical group and is specifically designed to control a broad spectrum of weeds including grasses, broadleaf weeds, and sedges in maize and sugarcane crops.

The dual-action formulation of Swastik Gladiator provides effective weed management by targeting weeds after they have emerged. Mesotrione works by inhibiting the HPPD enzyme in susceptible plants, disrupting pigment production and causing the weeds to turn white and die. Atrazine complements this action by inhibiting photosynthesis through binding to the D1 protein in the photosystem II complex. This combination ensures comprehensive control of a wide range of weed species while being selective to the main crop.

For farmers growing maize and sugarcane, weed competition during the early growth stages can significantly reduce yields. Swastik Gladiator offers a practical solution by providing effective post-emergence weed control, helping crops establish better without competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight. The SC formulation ensures easy mixing, uniform application, and good coverage on target weeds.

Key Benefits

• Controls a wide spectrum of weeds including grasses, broadleaf weeds, and sedges in a single application
• Selective action targets weeds without harming maize and sugarcane crops when used as recommended
• Dual-mode of action (Triketone + Triazine) reduces the risk of weed resistance development
• Suspension Concentrate (SC) formulation mixes easily with water and provides uniform spray coverage
• Post-emergence application allows farmers to treat weeds only after they appear, saving unnecessary spraying
• Helps protect crop yield by reducing weed competition during critical early growth stages
• Effective against both annual grasses and broadleaf weeds commonly found in maize and sugarcane fields

How It Works

Swastik Gladiator works through two complementary modes of action that attack weeds from different angles. Mesotrione, belonging to the Triketone group, is absorbed by the leaves and roots of the weed. It inhibits the HPPD enzyme (4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase), which is essential for the production of plastoquinone and tocopherols in plants. When this enzyme is blocked, the weed cannot produce carotenoids — pigments that protect chlorophyll from sunlight damage. Without this protection, chlorophyll gets destroyed by sunlight, causing the weed tissue to turn white or bleached, followed by plant death within a few days to weeks.

Atrazine, belonging to the Triazine group, is absorbed primarily through the roots and leaves and moves upward in the plant (xylem-mobile). It works by binding to the D1 protein in the photosystem II complex of the chloroplast, blocking electron transport during photosynthesis. This stops the weed from converting sunlight into energy, leading to starvation and death. The combination of these two different modes of action provides more reliable and complete weed control compared to using either ingredient alone.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Product Name	Swastik Gladiator
Active Ingredients	Mesotrione 2.27% w/w + Atrazine 22.7% w/w
Formulation Type	Suspension Concentrate (SC)
Chemical Group	Triketone + Triazine
Mode of Action	Post-emergence
Target Weeds	Grasses, broadleaf weeds, sedges
Target Crops	Maize, Sugarcane
Brand	Swastik Pesticides Limited
Country of Origin	India

Recommended Dosage & Application

Dosage: Refer to the product label for specific dosage instructions based on your crop, weed type, and infestation level. Always use the recommended dosage for safe and effective results.

Application Method: Apply Swastik Gladiator as a post-emergence spray when weeds are actively growing and in their early stages. Mix the required amount of product with water as per the recommended rates. Stir well and apply uniformly over the crop using suitable spraying equipment such as a knapsack sprayer or power sprayer with a flat fan nozzle.

Water Volume: Ensure sufficient water volume for thorough and uniform coverage of the target weeds. Adjust water volume based on crop canopy and weed density.

When to Use

Apply Swastik Gladiator during the post-emergence stage when weeds have emerged and are actively growing. For best results, apply during the early stages of weed growth (2-4 leaf stage for most annual weeds) when weeds are small and more susceptible to herbicide action. Avoid spraying during extremely hot, windy, or rainy conditions as this can reduce effectiveness or cause spray drift. Apply when the weather is calm and there is no rain expected for at least 4-6 hours after application. In maize and sugarcane, the ideal time is typically within the first few weeks after crop emergence, before weeds become well-established and compete aggressively with the crop.

Step by Step Usage Instructions

1. Check the label: Read the product label carefully before use. Note the recommended dosage for your specific crop and weed problem.
2. Prepare the spray solution: Fill the spray tank with half the required amount of clean water. Add the measured quantity of Swastik Gladiator and stir well. Add the remaining water and mix thoroughly.
3. Calibrate equipment: Ensure your sprayer is clean, properly calibrated, and fitted with suitable nozzles (flat fan nozzles recommended).
4. Spray uniformly: Apply the mixture evenly over the crop and weeds. Ensure complete coverage of weed foliage for best results. Avoid over-spraying or missing patches.
5. Clean equipment: After application, thoroughly clean all spraying equipment with water. Do not dispose of rinsate near water bodies or drainage.
6. Observe re-entry: Keep people and animals away from treated areas until the spray has dried completely, or for at least 24 hours.

Precautions & Safety

• Wear protective clothing, gloves, goggles, and a face mask during handling and application
• Avoid inhalation of spray mist and contact with skin, eyes, or clothing
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling or spraying the product
• Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water after handling
• Store in a cool, dry place away from children, pets, food, and animal feed
• Keep the product in its original container with the label intact
• Avoid spray drift onto neighboring crops, water bodies, or non-target areas
• Do not contaminate ponds, rivers, or other water sources with the product or its container

PHI / REI & Storage

Parameter	Details
Re-entry Interval (REI)	After spray has dried or after 24 hours, whichever is earlier
Storage	Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat
Container	Keep in original container with label intact, away from food and feed