Paraquat dichloride, often just called Paraquat, is a fast-working herbicide that farmers across India rely on to tackle tough weeds. It’s affordable, effective, and kills weeds on contact, making it a handy tool for keeping fields clean. This guide explains what Paraquat is, how it works, the best ways to use it, and lists top Indian brands—all in simple, farmer-friendly language with SEO-friendly tips for easy online searches.
What is Paraquat Dichloride?
Paraquat is a strong weed-killer that wipes out grasses and broadleaf weeds when it touches their leaves. It doesn’t move inside plants like some other herbicides, so it only affects what it hits. Once sprayed, it stops weeds from making energy through sunlight, drying them out fast—often in just a few hours. After it hits the soil, it sticks to dirt and stops working, which means it won’t harm your crops’ roots or the next planting.
But here’s the catch: Paraquat is very toxic. It’s safe for crops if used right, but it’s dangerous for people and animals if mishandled. A tiny sip can be deadly, with no cure, so safety is key when using it.
Why Farmers Use Paraquat
Paraquat helps farmers in many ways:
- Weed Control: Clears out weeds in crops like tea, cotton, potatoes, and more.
- Field Prep: Kills weeds before planting without disturbing the soil.
- Waterways: Keeps canals and ponds weed-free for better water flow.
- Harvest Help: Dries out crops like cotton to make picking easier.
- Tough Weeds: Works on weeds that other herbicides can’t handle.
In India, it’s a favorite because it’s cheap and gets the job done, especially for small farms.
How to Use Paraquat the Right Way
Using Paraquat safely and effectively takes care. Here’s how farmers can do it best:
- Mixing: Add about 5 ml of Paraquat (24% SL) to 1 liter of water. Check the label for exact amounts based on your weeds.
- When to Spray: Spray on a dry, calm day when weeds are small (2-3 leaves). It dries fast and won’t wash off if rain comes later.
- How to Spray: Use a sprayer with a nozzle to hit only the weeds. For crops, spray between rows so it doesn’t touch your plants.
- Safety First: Wear gloves, boots, a mask, and goggles. Don’t breathe it in or let it touch your skin. Keep kids and animals away.
- Storage: Lock it up in its original bottle, far from food or drinks. Never pour it into soda bottles—people might drink it by mistake.
- Wait Time: Don’t harvest crops for at least 2 weeks after spraying (check crop rules).
Paraquat kills whatever green it touches, so aim carefully to protect your crops!
Crops and Dosage Table
Here’s a simple table showing common crops in India where Paraquat is used and how much to mix:
| Crop | Use | Dosage (24% SL) |
|---|---|---|
| Tea | Weeds between rows | 5 ml per liter |
| Cotton | Pre-plant or drying before harvest | 5-6 ml per liter |
| Potato | Weeds between rows | 5 ml per liter |
| Rice | Pre-plant weed clearance | 5-6 ml per liter |
| Maize | Weeds between rows | 5 ml per liter |
| Wheat | Pre-plant weed clearance | 5 ml per liter |
| Grapes | Weeds around vines | 5 ml per liter |
| Rubber | Weeds in plantation | 5-6 ml per liter |
Note: Always double-check the product label or ask your local agri-expert, as weed types and field conditions can change the dose.
Top Indian Brands Farmers Trust
India has some great Paraquat brands that farmers love for their quality and price. Here are the top picks:
- Gramoxone (Syngenta)
- A big name worldwide, Gramoxone works fast and is perfect for tea gardens and big fields.
- Purchase Now
- Uniquat (UPL Limited)
- Affordable and strong, Uniquat is a hit for cotton and tea farmers looking to save money.
- Purchase Now
- Ozone (Dhanuka Agritech Limited)
- Great for rubber and coffee plantations, Ozone knocks out weeds reliably.
- Clearance (Katyayani Organics)
- A budget-friendly choice, Clearance is popular for orchards and water weed control.
- Milquat (Insecticides India Ltd)
- Quick and effective, Milquat is a top pick for potato and maize fields.
You can find these at local farm stores, Krishi Seva Kendras, or online on sites like AgriBegri and BigHaat.
Paraquat in India: What’s the Talk?
Farmers in states like Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu swear by Paraquat for its results. But it’s not all smooth sailing—some worry about its dangers. Accidents and misuse have caused harm, and there’s talk about banning it like other countries have. Still, many say it’s too useful to lose, especially with weeds getting harder to kill. Farmers are also chatting online about safer ways to use it or switch to greener options.
Wrapping Up
Paraquat dichloride is a powerful friend for farmers fighting weeds. It’s quick, cheap, and works where others fail, but it demands respect and careful hands. With brands like Gramoxone, Uniquat, and Ozone, Indian farmers have solid choices. Use it right—follow the table, wear your gear, and spray smart—and it’ll keep your fields thriving. Stay safe, and happy farming!
Keywords: Paraquat dichloride, herbicide, weed control, farmer guide, Indian brands, Gramoxone, Uniquat, Ozone, crops dosage, agriculture, SEO-friendly.