Gharda Hamla 550 Insecticide (Chlorpyriphos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC)
The legendary "505" formula for instant knockdown of hard-to-kill pests.
Gharda Hamla 550 is a powerful broad-spectrum insecticide that combines two heavy-hitting chemicals: Chlorpyriphos and Cypermethrin. Known popularly as "505," it is the go-to solution for farmers when pest infestations are severe and mixed. It handles caterpillars (borers) and sucking pests simultaneously, providing both immediate relief and long-lasting protection through its fumigant (vapor) action.
Best For: Farmers dealing with heavy, mixed infestations of Bollworms, Stem Borers, and Sucking Pests in Cotton, Paddy, and Vegetables who need a cost-effective "Rescue" spray.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
-
⏱️
Double Action Attack: Cypermethrin provides an instant "shock" knockdown, paralyzing pests on contact. Chlorpyriphos provides a "heavy hammer" kill that lasts longer and penetrates hidden areas.
-
🛡️
Multi-Pest Control: It is a true all-rounder. It kills chewing pests (like American Bollworm), boring pests (like Stem Borer), and sucking pests (like Aphids/Jassids) all at once.
-
⏳
Vapor (Fumigant) Action: The Chlorpyriphos component releases strong vapors that penetrate into dense crop canopies and soil cracks, killing pests hiding inside stems or under leaves.
-
🌧️
Rainfast & Stable: The oil-based EC formulation sticks well to plant surfaces and becomes rainfast within 2-3 hours. Gharda's superior technology ensures the emulsion stays stable in the tank.
-
🌿
Highly Economical: At a low cost per acre, it offers powerful control, often saving the need for multiple sprays of weaker chemicals. It is a budget-friendly "Rescue" tool.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Hamla 550 (Gharda Chemicals) |
| Technical Name | Chlorpyriphos 50% + Cypermethrin 5% EC |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 1B (Organophosphate) + Group 3A (Pyrethroid) |
| Chemical Group | Organophosphate + Synthetic Pyrethroid |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (Liquid EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Yellow Triangle (Highly Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Hamla 550 uses a "One-Two Punch" strategy to overwhelm the insect's nervous system.
- Nerve Shock (Cypermethrin): It keeps the sodium channels in the nerves open. This causes immediate tremors and "knockdown" paralysis within minutes. The pest stops feeding instantly.
- Nerve Failure (Chlorpyriphos): It inhibits the enzyme (acetylcholinesterase) that cleans up nerve signals. This causes a jam in the nervous system, leading to continuous firing, exhaustion, and death.
- Fumigation: The vapors enter the insect's breathing system, killing pests hidden in soil cracks or plant stems where the liquid spray didn't reach.
This combination is effective against pests that have developed resistance to single-chemical sprays.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Bollworm Complex (American, Spotted, Pink), Aphids, Jassids, Whitefly |
| Rice (Paddy) | Yellow Stem Borer, Leaf Folder |
| Vegetables (Brinjal/Okra) | Shoot & Fruit Borer, Fruit Borer |
| Sugarcane | Early Shoot Borer, Black Bug |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre". Do not use on export crops (like Basmati Rice) if restrictions apply.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 350 - 400 ml | 150 - 200 L | 2.0 ml | 15 Days |
| Rice | 400 - 500 ml | 150 - 200 L | 2.0 - 2.5 ml | 15 - 30 Days |
| Vegetables | 300 - 400 ml | 150 L | 1.5 - 2.0 ml | 7 - 14 Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Spray when you see mixed damage (borers + sucking pests). In Paddy, spray when you see "Dead Hearts" or leaf folding.
- Mixing: Always make a pre-mix in a small bucket before adding to the main tank. Ensure water pH is between 5.5 and 6.5 for best results (alkaline water destroys the chemical).
- Coverage: Use a Hollow Cone nozzle for a fine mist. Ensure the spray covers the underside of leaves for Aphids and penetrates the canopy for Borers.
- Safety: Do not spray during hot afternoons (vapor can be dangerous). Spray in the cool morning or late evening. Always wear a mask and gloves.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Hamla 550 on Basmati Rice for export?
No. Export regulations (especially for the EU) are very strict about Chlorpyriphos residues. Use safer alternatives like Gharda Appu or Quartz for export crops.
2. Does it kill Whitefly?
Yes, it provides good knockdown of adult whiteflies. However, for heavy whitefly infestations, rotate with specialized products like Gharda Guru to prevent resistance.
3. Why does my skin itch after spraying?
This is a common side effect of Cypermethrin (paresthesia). It is temporary. Wash thoroughly with soap and water, and apply coconut oil to soothe the skin. Always wear full sleeves next time.
4. Can I mix it with other chemicals?
Yes, Hamla 550 is compatible with most fungicides. However, do not mix it with highly alkaline products (like Bordeaux mixture) as it will lose effectiveness.
5. Is it safe for bees?
No. It is highly toxic to bees. Do not spray when the crop is flowering (blooming). If necessary, spray in the late evening when bees are not active.
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. Warning: Highly toxic to fish and honeybees. Do not use near water bodies.
