Gilardo® Herbicide (Topramezone 33.6% SC) – Expert Weed Control for Maize
The ultimate post-emergence solution for tough grasses and broadleaf weeds in Corn.
Gilardo® is a new-generation herbicide powered by Topramezone. Designed specifically for Indian maize farmers, it offers a powerful rescue treatment against stubborn weeds that survive traditional pre-emergence sprays. Whether you are growing Field Corn, Sweet Corn, or Popcorn, Gilardo ensures your crop gets the nutrition it deserves by eliminating weed competition.
Best for: Controlling Echinochloa (Barnyard grass), Parthenium (Congress grass), and other hard-to-kill weeds in standing crops.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Superior Rainfastness: Absorbs into the plant system within just 2 hours. Even if it rains shortly after spraying, your investment is safe.
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High Crop Safety: Safe for all types of maize (Hybrid, Sweet, Popcorn). It targets the weeds without harming your crop yield.
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Wide Application Window: Effective when weeds are at the 2 to 4 leaf stage, giving you flexibility during the busy Kharif season.
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Broad Spectrum Control: One shot controls both narrow-leaf grasses (Monocots) and broadleaf weeds (Dicots), including invasive species.
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Systemic Action: Moves up and down within the weed (acropetal and basipetal), killing the plant from the root tip to the shoot.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Gilardo® (Marketed by FMC) |
| Technical Name | Topramezone 33.6% SC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 27 (HPPD Inhibitor) |
| Chemical Group | Pyrazolone (Phenyl pyrazole) |
| Formulation | Suspension Concentrate (Liquid) |
| Toxicity Label | Signal Word: DANGER (Handle with care) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Gilardo works by inhibiting the HPPD enzyme. This disruption stops the weed from producing carotenoids (natural sunscreens).
- Absorption: The active ingredient (Topramezone) is rapidly absorbed by leaves, roots, and shoots.
- Protection Failure: It blocks the production of protective pigments, leaving chlorophyll vulnerable.
- Bleaching Effect: Sunlight destroys the weed's chlorophyll. The weeds turn white (bleach) and die within days.
Note: The "Bleaching" effect usually starts at the growing tips of the weed.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Maize (Corn) | Barnyard Grass (Echinochloa spp.) |
| Sweet Corn / Popcorn | Congress Grass (Parthenium hysterophorus) |
| Maize Hybrids | Crowfoot Grass, Amaranthus, Crabgrass |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results. Using the correct adjuvants is mandatory for success.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maize (Field Corn) | 30 ml - 40 ml | 150 - 200 L | ~0.2 ml | As per Label |
| Adjuvant (MSO) | Mandatory | - | 2 ml per Litre | - |
| Tank Mix (Atrazine) | 500g (Etre) | - | - | - |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. Always use MSO (Methylated Seed Oil) to ensure the chemical penetrates waxy weed leaves.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Spray when weeds are at the 2 to 4 leaf stage. Applying later may result in weed regrowth.
- Mixing: For best results, use the "Gilardo + Etre (Atrazine)" tank mix. Add MSO Adjuvant at 2ml/Litre of water.
- Coverage: Use a knapsack sprayer with a Flat Fan or Floodjet nozzle. Ensure uniform coverage of weed foliage.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Strict Warning: Pregnant women should avoid handling this product.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the rainfastness of Gilardo?
It is rainfast within 2 hours. Rain occurring after this period will not reduce its effectiveness.
2. Can I use Gilardo on Sweet Corn?
Yes, Gilardo has a high safety profile and is registered for use on Field Corn, Sweet Corn, and Popcorn.
3. Why do the weeds turn white?
This is the "Bleaching" effect caused by the HPPD inhibition ($C_{16}H_{17}N_{3}O_{5}S$ activity). It indicates the herbicide is destroying the weed's chlorophyll.
4. Do I really need to add the MSO adjuvant?
Yes, absolutely. MSO helps the herbicide penetrate the waxy leaves of tough grasses like Barnyard grass. Without it, efficacy drops significantly.
5. What is the ideal time to spray?
The best time is 15-25 days after sowing (DAS), when weeds are small (2-4 leaf stage) and actively growing.
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. Danger: May damage fertility or the unborn child. Restricted handling for pregnant women. Toxic to aquatic life.
