Nicosulfuron OD 4%

Formulation: Oil Dispersion (OD) 4%
Active Ingredient: Nicosulfuron OD 4%
Trade Name: Cruz
Manufacturer / Country: EgyptChem – Egypt
Resistance Group: HRAC Group B / WSSA Group 2
Packaging: 1-liter Coex bottle

Introduction

Nicosulfuron is a highly effective, selective systemic herbicide widely used for the control of weeds in corn (maize) fields. It plays a key role in modern weed management programs by ensuring clean fields and improved crop performance.

What Is Nicosulfuron?

Nicosulfuron is a selective systemic herbicide absorbed through both foliage and, to a lesser extent, roots. It is applied post-emergence to control a broad spectrum of grass and broadleaf weeds in maize fields.

This herbicide belongs to the sulfonylurea group. It accumulates in meristematic tissues and inhibits the synthesis of essential amino acids, particularly valine and isoleucine, thereby preventing cell division and plant growth. After absorption through green plant parts, it is translocated throughout the weed via vascular tissues. Symptoms include chlorosis, necrosis, and ultimately the gradual death of weed growing points. Treated weeds initially turn yellow, followed by purple discoloration of leaves and stems, leading to complete plant death.

Continuous and repeated use may result in herbicide resistance; therefore, rotation with herbicides from different chemical groups is strongly recommended.

Application Rate
Crop Target Weeds Application Rate
Maize Grass and broadleaf weeds 2 L/ha (post-emergence)

Use strictly according to the above recommendations. Proper application and adherence to guidelines are the responsibility of the user.

Timing of Application

According to available references, the optimal application stage is at the 2-leaf stage of maize, though application is possible up to the 4-leaf stage. Best results are achieved when weeds are actively growing and not under stress.

Tank Mixing

Avoid mixing Nicosulfuron with 2,4-D herbicides and organophosphate insecticides. If tank mixing with other pesticides is necessary, a compatibility (jar) test is recommended prior to application. Always consult plant protection experts before mixing with other agrochemicals.

Mode of Action

Nicosulfuron, as a sulfonylurea herbicide, inhibits amino acid biosynthesis in meristematic tissues, halting cell division and plant growth, ultimately resulting in weed death.

Toxicological Information

Acute oral LD₅₀ (male rats): > 5000 mg/kg (a.i.)

WHO Hazard Classification: U (Unlikely to present acute hazard)

Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)

No pre-harvest interval has been registered for this herbicide to date.

Antidote

There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic. In case of poisoning, seek medical attention immediately and present the product label to the physician.

Safety Precautions During Application

Wear appropriate protective equipment, including work clothing, hat, goggles, mask, impermeable gloves, and boots during spraying. Smoking during application is strictly prohibited. After spraying, wash work clothes and take a shower. Avoid discharging pesticide residues into natural environments or water sources.

Storage Conditions and Precautions

Store the product in its original packaging, away from food, feed, children, and animals, in a locked warehouse protected from sunlight and moisture. Recommended storage temperature is 10–35°C. Once the seal is broken, product shelf life may decrease. Do not store diluted spray solutions.

Directions for Use

Select and properly calibrate a suitable sprayer. Clean the tank thoroughly and fill it halfway or three-quarters with clean water. Dissolve the recommended amount of herbicide in a separate container, then slowly add it to the spray tank while the agitator is running. Add the remaining water to reach the required volume. The prepared solution should be used within a few hours and sprayed evenly over target weeds.

Persistence

Based on available data, the soil half-life of Nicosulfuron is approximately 26 days. Due to its persistence, careful consideration should be given when selecting rotational crops for the following season.

Application Management

Adequate soil moisture before and after spraying enhances herbicide absorption and efficacy.

Avoid application under stress conditions such as cold, drought, or nutrient deficiency.

Do not mix with organophosphate insecticides.

Avoid spraying during hot hours or windy conditions.

Use is prohibited in sweet corn; approved only for grain maize.

Rotate with herbicides of different modes of action to prevent resistance.

Use clear, low-salinity water for spraying.

Product Authenticity

All imported pesticides of Yas Andishan Sarir Sepehr are distributed nationwide exclusively through Afra Farazin Rahavard.

Important Notes

Application of Nicosulfuron is permitted only with a prescription from a certified plant protection specialist and strictly for the uses described above. Misuse or overuse of pesticides poses serious risks to human health and the environment. Although herbicides are often essential for crop protection, improper application can lead to long-term ecological damage. Therefore, Nicosulfuron must be used responsibly and in accordance with official guidelines issued by the national plant protection authorities.

Packaging: 1-liter bottle
Manufacturer: EgyptChem
Country of Origin: Egypt