Himax Herbicide (Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% SL)
The ultimate "Chemical Plough" for effective, broad-spectrum weed control in Cotton and Tea.
Himax by Insecticides (India) Limited is a powerful post-emergence herbicide. It bridges the gap between slow-acting systemic weed killers and dangerous contact poisons. With a high surfactant load of nearly 60%, it ensures rapid penetration and "burn-down" of tough weeds without damaging the soil.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Fast Action: Visible results (yellowing) in just 2-3 days; complete kill in 3-5 days.
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Crop Safety: Safer for inter-row spraying in Cotton than Glyphosate due to limited systemicity.
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Rainfastness: The high surfactant load makes it rainproof within just 4 hours of spraying.
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No Soil Residue: Degrades in soil within 3-10 days, making it safe for crop rotation.
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Broad Spectrum: Controls tough grasses, broadleaves, and sedges like Parthenium and Echinochloa.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Himax |
| Technical Name | Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% SL |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 10 (Glutamine Synthetase Inhibitor) |
| Chemical Group | Phosphinic Acid |
| Formulation | Soluble Liquid (SL) |
| Toxicity Label | Blue Label (Moderately Toxic) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Himax works by inhibiting an essential plant enzyme. It essentially starves the weed of nitrogen and causes a toxic buildup of ammonia inside the plant cells.
- Absorption: The high surfactant load helps the liquid penetrate the waxy leaves of the weed immediately.
- Enzyme Block: It stops the "Glutamine Synthetase" enzyme, which is vital for plant metabolism.
- Rapid Burn: Ammonia accumulates to toxic levels within the cells, destroying cell membranes and causing the weed to dry out and die.
Note: This process requires sunlight, so Himax works best on bright, sunny days.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Echinochloa, Cynodon (Bermuda Grass), Parthenium (Congress Grass) |
| Tea | Borreria, Imperata, Digitaria, and other broadleaf weeds |
| Soybean (Pre-Plant) | Burndown of all standing vegetation before sowing |
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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | 1000 - 1320 ml | 200 - 250 L | 5 - 6 ml | 96 |
| Tea | 1000 - 1320 ml | 200 - 250 L | 5 - 6 ml | 15 |
| Non-Crop Area | 1200 ml | 200 L | 6 ml | - |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply when weeds are young (2-4 leaf stage) and actively growing. Spray on a sunny day for the best "burn" effect.
- Mixing: Use clean water. Do not reduce water volume; use at least 200 Liters per acre to ensure the weeds are fully coated.
- Coverage: Use a Flat Fan or Flood Jet nozzle. For cotton, use a spray hood to protect the crop leaves from drift.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is Himax different from Glyphosate?
Himax is a contact herbicide (burns only what it touches) with limited movement inside the plant. Glyphosate is systemic (kills roots). Himax is safer for inter-row spraying as it poses less risk to the main crop.
2. Is Himax rainfast?
Yes, due to its specialized surfactants, Himax is rainfast within 4 hours. Rain after this period will not reduce efficacy.
3. Can I use it on any crop?
No. It is a non-selective herbicide. It will damage any green plant tissue it touches. Use it only in registered crops (Cotton, Tea) using a protective hood to shield the crop.
4. What is the shelf life of Himax?
When stored in a cool, dry place in its original sealed container, the product remains stable for 2 years from the date of manufacture.
5. What is the typical cost per acre?
While prices vary by region, using Himax typically costs between ₹800–₹1,100 per acre (including application), which is nearly 70% cheaper than manual weeding.
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. Himax carries a Blue Triangle (Moderately Toxic) warning; avoid use near aquaculture/fish ponds.
