Hunter Granules (Butachlor 5% GR) – HPM Herbicide for Rice
The "Broadcast and Forget" Solution for Weed-Free Paddy Fields.
Hunter Granules by HPM is a specialized pre-emergence herbicide designed specifically for Indian rice farmers facing labor shortages. Powered by Butachlor 5% GR, this granular formula creates a chemical barrier in your paddy field that stops weeds before they even start.
Why pay for expensive manual weeding? Hunter Granules offers a cost-effective alternative (saving up to 75% compared to labor costs) that effectively controls grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds during the critical early days of your crop.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Labor Saver: eliminates the need for manual weeding crews, saving you time and drastically reducing labor costs.
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High Crop Safety: Advanced selectivity ensures the rice plant detoxifies the chemical safely, while weeds are destroyed.
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Long-Lasting Control: Provides residual control for 20-30 days, keeping the field clean during the critical root establishment phase.
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Easy Application: No sprayers or pumps needed. Simply broadcast the granules by hand into standing water.
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Broad Spectrum: Targets the toughest paddy enemies, including Barnyard Grass (Echinochloa) and Sedge.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Hunter Granules |
| Technical Name | Butachlor 5% GR |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group K3 (VLCFA Inhibitor) |
| Chemical Group | Chloroacetanilide |
| Formulation | Granules (GR) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Hunter Granules works by stopping cell division in weed seedlings. When broadcast into standing water, the granules release Butachlor, which forms a treated layer on the soil surface.
- Inhibition: The active ingredient inhibits the synthesis of Very Long Chain Fatty Acids (VLCFA), which are essential for cell growth.
- Absorption: As weed seeds germinate, their shoots and roots absorb the chemical from the treated water/soil layer.
- Elimination: The emerging weed shoots become twisted, turn necrotic, and die before they can emerge above the water surface.
Note: Rice plants are safe because they possess enzymes (GST) that rapidly detoxify the chemical, a defense mechanism that weeds lack.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Transplanted Rice (Paddy) | Barnyard Grass (Echinochloa crus-galli), Jungle Rice, Sedge |
| Direct Seeded Rice (Wet) | Smallflower Umbrella Sedge (Cyperus difformis), Rice Flat Sedge |
| Ludwigia parviflora (Broadleaf), Eclipta alba |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results. This is a granular product, so no mixing tank is required.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (kg / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rice (Paddy) | 10 - 16 kg | N/A (Broadcast) | N/A | 90 |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. (Note: Hunter is applied very early in the season, far before harvest).
How to Apply: Best Practices
[Image of farmer broadcasting granules in paddy field]- Timing: Apply 3 to 7 Days After Transplanting (DAT). Weeds must not have emerged yet.
- Mixing: This is a Ready-To-Use granule. No water mixing required. You can mix it with sand or fertilizer for easier distribution.
- Coverage: Maintain standing water (3–5 cm depth) in the field for 4–5 days after application. Do not drain the field.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Avoid direct skin contact to prevent "paddy itch."
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Hunter Granules if the weeds are already visible?
No. Hunter is a pre-emergence herbicide. It works best before weed seeds germinate. If weeds are already green and visible, this product will not be effective.
2. Is this product safe for fish in the paddy?
No. Butachlor is toxic to fish. Do not use Hunter Granules if you are practicing rice-fish farming or aquaculture in the same water.
3. What happens if I drain the water immediately after application?
Draining water breaks the chemical barrier. You must keep 3-5 cm of standing water for at least 4-5 days to allow the granules to dissolve and coat the soil surface.
4. Can I mix Hunter Granules with Urea?
Yes, farmers often mix the granules with sand or Urea fertilizers to ensure uniform broadcasting across the field.
5. What is the difference between Hunter Granules and Hunter EC?
Hunter Granules (5% GR) is a solid that you throw by hand. Hunter EC (50% EC) is a liquid that must be mixed with water and sprayed using a pump. Granules are generally easier to use in standing water.
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.
