Hit 44 Herbicide (2,4-D Ethyl Ester 38% EC)
The "Tractor Brand" trusted solution for powerful post-emergence broadleaf weed control.
Struggling with stubborn broadleaf weeds in your Wheat, Maize, or Sugarcane fields? Hit 44 by Insecticides (India) Limited is a specialized systemic herbicide designed to eliminate weeds that compete with your crop for yield.
Best For: Farmers seeking a fast-penetrating, cost-effective solution for hard-to-kill weeds with waxy leaves.
Why Choose Hit 44? Key Benefits
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Fast Penetration: The "Ethyl Ester" formula is oil-based, allowing it to cut through waxy weed leaves faster than salt-based alternatives.
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Selective Action: Tough on broadleaf weeds (Bathua, Wild Onion) but safe for grass crops like Wheat and Maize when used at the right time.
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Systemic Kill: It travels down to the roots, ensuring the weed is killed completely and won't grow back.
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Rainfast Nature: Because it absorbs quickly into the leaf, it is less likely to wash off during sudden rain showers compared to other formulas.
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Aquatic Control: Highly effective against invasive water weeds like Water Hyacinth.
Hit 44 Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Hit 44 |
| Technical Name | 2,4-D Ethyl Ester 38% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 4 (Synthetic Auxin) |
| Chemical Group | Phenoxycarboxylic acid |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Moderately Toxic |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Hit 44 mimics a natural plant growth hormone (Auxin), but at an overdose level that weeds cannot handle.
- Rapid Absorption: Sprayed onto foliage, the ester formula penetrates the waxy cuticle immediately.
- Translocation: It travels through the plant's vascular system to the growing points (roots and shoots).
- Growth Disruption: It forces cells to grow uncontrollably and chaotically. The weed stems curl and twist (epinasty), the vascular system is crushed, and the weed starves to death.
Note: Cereal crops like wheat can detoxify this chemical quickly, which is why they remain safe while the weeds die.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Wheat | Bathua (Chenopodium album), Wild Onion (Asphodelus tenuifolius), Fumaria, Melilotus. |
| Maize (Corn) | Carpet weed (Trianthema), Amaranthus, Tribulus terrestris. |
| Sugarcane | Bindweed (Convolvulus), Purslane, Commelina, Digitaria spp. |
| Aquatic Areas | Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes). |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results. Too little won't kill weeds; too much can hurt the crop.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat | 530 - 890 ml | 150 - 200 L | 3.5 - 4.5 ml/L | -- |
| Maize | 1000 - 1100 ml | 150 - 200 L | 5 - 6 ml/L | 50 - 60 |
| Sugarcane | 1400 - 2100 ml | 200 - 250 L | 7 - 9 ml/L | 300 - 330 |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. Water volume generally assumes Knapsack sprayer usage.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing (Wheat): Apply strictly between 30 to 40 Days After Sowing (DAS). Spraying too early can hurt the young crop; spraying too late (after jointing stage) causes grain deformity.
- Mixing: Add the required quantity of Hit 44 to a small amount of water, mix well, and then add to the main tank. Stir well to maintain the emulsion.
- Coverage (Maize): Use a directed spray (hooded nozzle) to aim between the rows. Avoid spraying directly into the "whorl" (center funnel) of the maize plant to prevent brittle stems.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). 2,4-D is harmful if swallowed or inhaled. Avoid drift to nearby sensitive crops like Cotton, Okra, or Tomato.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Hit 44 on Cotton or vegetables?
No. Hit 44 is highly volatile. The vapors can drift and severely damage broadleaf crops like Cotton, Tomato, Grapes, and Okra. Keep it away from these sensitive plants.
2. What happens if it rains after spraying?
Hit 44 is an "Ester" formulation, which is absorbed quickly (rainfast). However, for best results, ensure there is no rain forecast for at least 4-6 hours after application.
3. Is there an antidote for accidental poisoning?
There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive (gastric lavage, alkaline diuresis). In case of ingestion, induce vomiting only if conscious and seek immediate medical help.
4. Can I use it in rice fields?
Yes, it is effective against sedges and broadleaf weeds in transplanted rice. Ensure a re-entry interval of 24 hours after spraying for safety.
5. Why are the leaves of my weeds curling?
This is a good sign! It means the herbicide is working. The "twisting" (epinasty) is caused by the overdose of the growth hormone mimic, leading to the weed's death.
Safety & Disclaimer
Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label. The information provided here is for guidance only. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) during application. Do not use near sensitive broadleaf crops.
