MAHINDI-RA 537.5 SE

Weeds such as annual grasses and broadleaf species are a major constraint in maize production, especially during early crop establishment.

These weeds:

• Compete with maize for nutrients, water, and sunlight
• Reduce crop vigour and stand establishment
• Lower yield potential
• Increase production costs due to repeated weeding

Poor weed control during early growth stages can result in significant yield losses and reduced farm profitability.

Product Overview

MAHINDI-RA 537.5 SE is a pre- and early post-emergence herbicide designed for effective control of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in maize.

It contains three active ingredients:

1. S-Metolachlor 375 g/L
2. Terbuthylazine 125 g/L
3. Mesotrione 37.5 g/L

This combination provides broad-spectrum weed control with both soil and foliar activity.

Mode of Action

MAHINDI-RA 537.5 SE combines three complementary modes of action:

S-Metolachlor (Chloroacetanilide group):

S-Metolachlor, a herbicide in the chloroacetanilide group, acts primarily as a pre-emergence herbicide by inhibiting the growth of emerging shoots and roots in germinating seedlings. It interferes with the synthesis of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), which are essential for cell division and membrane formation. As a result, susceptible plants fail to develop properly immediately after germination, leading to stunted growth and eventual death.

Terbuthylazine (Triazine group):

Terbuthylazine is absorbed mainly through the roots and translocated within the plant. It exerts its herbicidal effect by inhibiting photosynthesis through disruption of the photosystem II electron transport chain. Specifically, it binds to the D1 protein in photosystem II, blocking electron flow and preventing the conversion of light energy into chemical energy. This leads to the generation of reactive intermediates, chlorosis, and eventual plant death.

Mesotrione (Triketone group):

Mesotrione acts by inhibiting the 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase enzyme, which is essential for carotenoid biosynthesis. Carotenoids play a critical role in protecting chlorophyll from photooxidative damage. Inhibition of this enzyme results in depletion of carotenoids, causing chlorophyll degradation and characteristic bleaching of plant tissues. The disruption of photosynthetic function ultimately leads to plant death.

This multi-site activity ensures effective control of a wide spectrum of weeds and reduces resistance risk.

Application Guidelines

• Apply up to 10 days before planting, pre-emergence, or early post-emergence (2–3 leaf stage)
• Apply once per season
• Ensure even spray coverage
• Apply when weeds are actively growing

Avoid spraying:

• Under drought stress
• On damaged or unhealthy weeds
• Do not contaminate water bodies during application

Integrate with good agronomic practices such as:

• Crop rotation
• Mechanical weed control
• Proper field sanitation

Benefits

1. Broad-spectrum control of grasses and broadleaf weeds
2. Dual action (soil + foliar activity)
3. Effective in pre- and early post-emergence stages
4. Long-lasting residual control
5. Reduces need for multiple weeding operations
6. Enhances early crop establishment
7. Combines three modes of action for improved efficacy

Mixing Instructions

1. Fill the spray tank halfway with clean water
2. Add the required amount of MAHINDI-RA 537.5 SE
3. Top up with water to the required level
4. Agitate thoroughly to achieve uniform mixing
5. Spray immediately after preparation