Crystal Gramoxone Herbicide (Paraquat Dichloride 24% SL): A Complete Farmer's Guide
Master weed control with the power of the original Gramoxone, now brought to you by Crystal Crop Protection.
Crystal Gramoxone is one of the most trusted non-selective, contact herbicides in Indian agriculture. Originally a legacy brand of Syngenta, it is now manufactured by Crystal Crop Protection. It is designed to burn down weeds quickly and effectively, making it an essential tool for land preparation and inter-row weed management.
Best for: Farmers looking for rapid weed control in tea, coffee, paddy, cotton, and non-crop areas without harming the soil for the next crop.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Lightning Fast Action: See results within hours of spraying. It works much faster than systemic alternatives like Glyphosate.
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Trusted Quality: Manufactured with built-in safety features like a stenching agent (smell) and emetic (vomiting agent) to prevent accidental poisoning.
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Soil Safe (Zero Residual): Become biologically inactive upon touching the soil. You can sow seeds or transplant crops immediately after spraying.
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Rainfast in Minutes: Does not wash away easily. It remains effective even if it rains just 15–30 minutes after application.
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Broad Spectrum Control: Effectively kills a wide range of tough grasses, broadleaf weeds, and ferns by destroying green plant tissue on contact.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Crystal Gramoxone |
| Technical Name | Paraquat Dichloride 24% SL |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 22 (Photosystem I Diverter) |
| Chemical Group | Bipyridylium |
| Formulation | Soluble Liquid (SL) |
| Toxicity Label | High Toxicity (Poison) - Handle with Extreme Care |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Gramoxone is a "Chemical Scorch" agent. It does not travel to the roots; it kills only the green parts it touches.
- Contact Absorption: The chemical is absorbed rapidly by green leaves and stems.
- Photosynthesis Hijack: It intercepts electrons during photosynthesis (sunlight processing) inside the plant cells.
- Cell Destruction: This reaction creates "free radicals" that rupture cell membranes, causing the weed to dry out and die within hours.
Note: Because it needs photosynthesis to work, it is most effective when sprayed on bright, sunny days.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) / Usage |
|---|---|
| Tea & Coffee | Digitaria, Broadleaf weeds (Inter-row application) |
| Rice (Paddy) & Wheat | Grassy weeds, Pre-plant burn-down (Zero Tillage) |
| Cotton & Maize | Pigweed, Annual grasses (Directed spray between rows) |
| Potato | Haulm destruction (Drying vines before harvest) |
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 (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tea & Coffee | 1000 - 1250 ml | 200 L | 5 - 6 ml | Check Label |
| Rice, Maize & Cotton | 800 - 1000 ml | 150 - 200 L | 4 - 5 ml | Check Label |
| Potato (Haulm) | As per canopy | 200 L | 5 - 7 ml | Check Label |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting. Always consult the local leaflet for specific PHI values.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply when weeds are actively growing (2-4 leaf stage). For zero-tillage, apply before sowing seeds.
- Mixing: Use clean water. Do not use muddy water as soil particles can deactivate the chemical immediately in the tank.
- Coverage: Use a hood or shield on your spray nozzle when spraying between crop rows to prevent the chemical from touching your main crop.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles, boots). Avoid skin contact and inhalation. Wash hands and body thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Crystal Gramoxone kill the roots of the weeds?
No. It is a contact herbicide. It kills the top green growth rapidly but does not travel to the roots. Perennial weeds may regrow.
2. Is it safe to plant seeds immediately after spraying?
Yes. Gramoxone becomes biologically inactive upon contact with soil particles. It will not harm seeds drilled into the soil or new transplants.
3. What if it rains after I spray?
Crystal Gramoxone is rainfast within 15–30 minutes. Once dried on the leaf, rain will not reduce its effectiveness.
4. Can I use it on standing crops?
Only if you use a protective hood/shield to spray strictly between the rows. If the spray touches your crop leaves, it will burn them.
5. Is this product banned in any states?
Currently, there are sales restrictions and bans in states like Odisha and Kerala. Please check your local state agricultural regulations before purchasing.
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. Paraquat is a toxic substance; keep away from children and livestock.
