Astra Insecticide (Pymetrozine 50% WG): The Ultimate BPH Specialist
Stop "Hopper Burn" instantly with Coromandel Astra—the expert solution for Brown Plant Hoppers in Rice.
Are you worried about Brown Plant Hoppers (BPH) destroying your paddy yield? Astra (Pymetrozine 50% WG) is a specialized systemic insecticide designed to protect your crop from sucking pests. Unlike older poisons that pests have become used to, Astra uses unique technology to stop pests from feeding immediately.
Best For: Farmers looking for a "spider-friendly" solution that stops crop damage instantly and provides long-lasting protection.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Immediate Feeding Stop: Pests stop eating your crop the moment they touch Astra. No eating means no more damage.
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Safe for Friends: It kills hoppers but saves friendly insects like Spiders and Mirid bugs, which help eat any remaining pests.
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Long-Lasting Protection: One spray keeps your field safe for 14 to 21 days, saving you labor costs.
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Rainfast in 2 Hours: Absorbs quickly into the plant. Even if it rains 2-3 hours after spraying, the medicine stays effective.
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Systemic Action: It moves inside the plant (upward and translaminar), reaching hidden pests at the base of the stem.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Astra |
| Technical Name | Pymetrozine 50% WG |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 9B (Chordotonal Organ Modulator) |
| Chemical Group | Pyridine Azomethines |
| Formulation | Water Dispersible Granules (WG) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue/Green (Depending on Pack) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Astra works differently from common poisons. It targets the insect's nervous system responsible for balance and hearing (Chordotonal organs).
- Immediate Starvation: Upon contact or ingestion, the pest permanently loses the ability to insert its feeding tube into the plant.
- Paralysis: The hind legs of the hopper become paralyzed, preventing them from jumping to other plants.
- Elimination: Unable to eat or move, the pest dies of starvation within 1 to 4 days.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Rice (Paddy) | Brown Plant Hopper (BPH), White Backed Plant Hopper (WBPH) |
| Cotton (Secondary) | Aphids, Whiteflies |
| Vegetables | Aphids (on Peppers, Tomatoes) |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" for accurate results.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (g / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (g / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rice (Paddy) | 120 g | 150 - 200 L | 0.6 - 0.8 g | 19 - 21 Days |
| Cotton | 120 - 150 g | 200 L | 0.8 g | - |
| Drone Spray (Rice) | 120 g | 10 - 20 L | Calculate | 21 Days |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply at the "Tillering Stage" or when you see 10-15 hoppers per hill. Do not wait for the crop to turn yellow (hopper burn).
- Mixing: Dissolve the granules in a small mug of water first to make a "slurry," then add it to the main tank.
- Coverage: BPH lives at the bottom of the plant. Direct the spray nozzle towards the base (roots/stems), not just the top leaves.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use. Avoid spraying when bees are active.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Astra kill the hoppers immediately?
It stops them from feeding instantly, so crop damage stops immediately. However, the insect may remain alive (but harmless) for 2-4 days before dying of starvation.
2. Is Astra safe for spiders in my rice field?
Yes! Astra is selective. It kills the hoppers but is relatively safe for spiders and natural enemies . This helps prevent the pest from coming back quickly (resurgence).
3. Can I use Astra for Export Rice (Basmati)?
Yes, provided you follow the PHI of 21 days. This ensures residues are below export limits.
4. Can I mix Astra with fungicides?
Yes, Astra is generally compatible with common rice fungicides like Hexaconazole (for Sheath Blight) and Tricyclazole (for Blast).
5. Is it approved for Drone Spraying?
Yes, the CIBRC has approved Pymetrozine 50% WG for drone application, making it easy to treat established fields without walking through mud.
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. Note: This product is toxic to fish; do not drain water from treated fields into fish ponds.
