Tokachi Herbicide (Penoxsulam): The Complete Guide for Rice Weed Control
Stop weeds from stealing your yield with the power of Japanese technology.
Tokachi (by IFFCO-MC) is a premium broad-spectrum herbicide designed specifically for paddy farmers. Powered by the active ingredient Penoxsulam, it provides complete control over grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds in a single spray.
Important Note on Formulation: Tokachi is available in two forms: 2.5% OD (Oil Dispersion) and 21.7% SC (Suspension Concentrate). Please check your bottle carefully, as the dosage differs significantly.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Stops Growth Instantly: Weeds stop competing with your rice for nutrients within 24-48 hours of spraying.
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Broad-Spectrum Control: One solution for all major weed types—Grasses, Sedges, and Broadleaves. No need to mix multiple killers.
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Systemic Action: It moves from the leaves down to the roots and tubers, ensuring weeds do not grow back.
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Rain Fastness (OD Formula): The Oil Dispersion (OD) technology sticks to leaves quickly, working effectively even with unexpected showers.
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Rice Safety: Highly selective to rice plants. It kills the weeds but leaves your crop healthy and green.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Tokachi (IFFCO-MC) |
| Technical Name | Penoxsulam |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 2 (ALS Inhibitor) |
| Chemical Group | Triazolopyrimidine Sulfonamide |
| Formulation | 2.5% OD (Oil Dispersion) OR 21.7% SC |
| Toxicity Label | Blue / Green (Caution) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Tokachi works by starving the weed of essential proteins required for life.
- Absorption: The herbicide is absorbed through both the leaves and roots of the weed.
- Inhibition: It travels through the plant's system and blocks the ALS enzyme, which is vital for producing amino acids.
- Elimination: Without these amino acids, cell division stops. The weed stops growing immediately, turns yellow within a week, and dies completely in 14-21 days.
Note: Rice plants naturally break down this chemical, so they remain unharmed.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Rice (Transplanted) | Barnyard Grass (Echinochloa), Jungle Rice |
| Rice (Direct Seeded - DSR) | Sedges (Cyperus varieties, Fimbristylis) |
| Nursery | Broadleaf Weeds (Monochoria, Ludwigia, Eclipta) |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always check if you have the OD or SC bottle. Following the wrong dose can damage your crop.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Dose (ml / Litre) | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rice (If using 2.5% OD) | 400 ml | 120 - 150 L | ~3 ml | 80-90 |
| Rice (If using 21.7% SC) | 36 - 40 ml | 120 - 150 L | ~0.3 ml | 80-90 |
*PHI = Pre-Harvest Interval: The minimum number of days to wait between the last spray and harvesting.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: Apply 10 to 15 days after transplanting (or sowing). The weeds should be at the 2 to 4-leaf stage for best results.
- Water Management: Drain the field before spraying so the chemical hits the weed leaves directly. Re-flood the field 48-72 hours after spraying to prevent new weeds from growing.
- Mixing: Shake the bottle vigorously before use (especially the OD formulation) to ensure medicine is well mixed.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use Tokachi if it is about to rain?
If you are using the 2.5% OD formulation, it is rainfast within 1 hour. However, for best results, try to find a clear window of 3-4 hours.
2. Will this kill the fish in my paddy?
Tokachi is not highly toxic to fish, but it is recommended to avoid using it in fields where active fish farming (pisciculture) is practiced.
3. Can I mix it with insecticides?
Avoid mixing with Organophosphates (like Chlorpyrifos) as it can cause crop injury. It is compatible with Cyhalofop-butyl for enhanced grass control.
4. My rice turned slightly yellow after spraying. Is this bad?
This is a temporary stress reaction. The crop will recover its green color within 10-14 days without any yield loss.
5. What is the difference between "2.7% SC" and "2.5% OD"?
"2.7% SC" is likely a confusion. The market mainly has 2.5% OD (Oil Dispersion) and 21.7% SC. The OD spreads better on waxy weeds, while the SC is more concentrated.
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.
