Pendamil Herbicide: Pendimethalin 30% EC by Insecticides India Ltd
The Ultimate Pre-Emergence "Chemical Insurance" for Cotton, Paddy, and Wheat Farmers.
Pendamil is a broad-spectrum, pre-emergence herbicide manufactured by Insecticides (India) Ltd (IIL). It is designed to stop weeds before they even start growing. By applying this solution immediately after sowing, you create a protective shield over your soil, preventing the germination of harmful grasses and broadleaf weeds.
Best For: Farmers looking to save labor costs on manual weeding and secure their yield during the critical first 40 days of crop growth.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Early Action: Stops weed competition at the very beginning (0-3 days), ensuring your crop gets all the soil nutrients.
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Long-Lasting Barrier: Forms a chemical layer on the soil surface that prevents weed emergence for weeks.
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Labor Saver: Reduces or eliminates the need for expensive manual weeding labor during the busy sowing season.
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Moisture Activated: Works effectively with pre-sowing irrigation or light rain, binding tightly to soil particles.
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Broad Spectrum: Controls tough weeds like Phalaris minor (Gulli Danda) and Barnyard grass effectively.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Pendamil |
| Technical Name | Pendimethalin 30% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group K1 (Microtubule Assembly Inhibition) |
| Chemical Group | Dinitroaniline |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Pendamil acts as a "mitotic poison" targeting the cell division process of weeds.
- Barrier Formation: Upon spraying, the chemical forms a thin film on the top 1-2 inches of the soil.
- Absorption: As weed seeds try to germinate, their emerging roots or shoots absorb the herbicide.
- Growth Arrest: The active ingredient inhibits microtubule assembly, stopping cell division. The weed seedling dies before it can emerge from the soil.
Note: Crop seeds are sown deeper than this chemical layer, keeping them safe from the herbicide.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Barnyard grass, Amaranthus viridis, Euphorbia spp. |
| Paddy (Rice) | Echinochloa spp. (Jungle Rice), Sedges, Crabgrass |
| Wheat | Phalaris minor (Gulli Danda), Chenopodium (Bathua) |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results. Use high water volume (200L/acre) for best coverage.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 1000 - 1600 ml | 200 L | 5 - 8 ml | Safe* |
| Paddy | 1300 - 2000 ml | 200 L | 6.5 - 10 ml | Safe* |
| Wheat | 1000 - 1200 ml | 200 L | 5 - 6 ml | 100+ |
*Safe/TBD = Since it is applied at sowing, residues are generally below limits by harvest. Always consult the label.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply within 0 to 3 days of sowing/transplanting. Do not apply if weeds have already emerged.
- Mixing: Conduct a "Jar Test" before tank mixing. Add Pendamil to water and stir well to form a white emulsion.
- Coverage (Reverse Walking): Always spray while walking backward. Stepping on treated soil breaks the chemical film and allows weeds to grow in your footprints.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). This product stains skin yellow/orange; wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Pendamil on dry soil?
No. Soil moisture is critical. Apply after a pre-sowing irrigation (Rauni) or ensure the field is lightly irrigated within 24-48 hours of spraying.
2. Will it kill weeds that have already grown?
No. Pendamil is a pre-emergence herbicide. It only kills weeds as they sprout. It will not kill established weeds.
3. Why is "Reverse Walking" important?
Pendamil forms a film on the soil. If you walk forward, your feet break this film, creating gaps where weeds will survive.
4. Does it stain skin or clothes?
Yes. As a dinitroaniline, it has a strong orange-yellow dye. Wear old clothes and gloves to avoid staining.
5. Can I use it for crops other than Cotton or Wheat?
Yes, it is also effective for Soybean, Pulses, and certain vegetable crops. Check the label for specific dosage.
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.
