Paraquat
Description
Paraquat is a fast-acting, non-selective contact herbicide that kills weeds very quickly when sprayed on them. The word 'non-selective' means it will kill any plant it touches, including your crops, so you must be very careful when using it. The word 'contact' means it works by direct contact with the plant - it doesn't move through the plant like systemic herbicides do. When you spray paraquat on weeds, you'll see them start to turn brown and die within hours to a few days, which is much faster than most other herbicides. It works especially well on annual weeds and grasses. Paraquat is very useful for clearing weeds before planting your crops, or for controlling weeds in areas where you don't want any plants to grow, like around farm buildings, along fences, or in pathways. However, it's extremely important to know that paraquat is very dangerous and can be fatal if swallowed or if it gets into your body through cuts or skin contact. You must always wear full protective clothing including gloves, long sleeves, long pants, eye protection, and a face mask when handling this product. Never use it near water sources, and never spray it when it's windy because the spray can drift to your crops or other areas. Also, paraquat is banned or restricted in many countries, so make sure it's legal to use in your area. Always follow all safety instructions very carefully. You can only use it before planting or after harvesting - never when your crops are growing.
Application rates
General
2-4 liters per hectare
Annual weeds
1.5-2.5 liters per hectare
Perennial weeds
3-5 liters per hectare
Application method
Target pests
Application timing
Before crop planting or after harvest. Never when crops are growing. Use only in calm weather.
Safety period
7-14 days before planting
Precautions
EXTREMELY TOXIC - Can be fatal if swallowed. Wear full protective equipment including gloves, eye protection, and face mask. Never use near water sources. Never spray in windy conditions. Restricted or banned in many countries. Follow all safety instructions carefully.
Crop compatibility
Benefits
- Very fast-acting - visible results within hours
- Effective against annual weeds and grasses
- Useful for pre-planting weed control
- Good for non-crop areas and pathways
- No residual soil activity
- Works in various weather conditions
Best for
- Pre-planting weed control for all crop types
- Fallow land management
- Non-crop areas (around buildings, fences, pathways)
- Quick weed control before planting
Usage tips
- ONLY use before planting or after harvest - NEVER when crops are growing
- Apply in calm weather to prevent drift
- Wear full protective equipment at all times
- Keep away from water sources and irrigation canals
- Fast-acting - monitor results within hours
- Check local regulations - may be restricted or banned
Storage instructions
Store in original container in locked, secure area. Keep away from children, food, feed, and water sources. Store separately from other pesticides. Follow all storage regulations.
Mixing compatibility
Can be mixed with some adjuvants. Do not mix with hard water or alkaline solutions. Check compatibility before mixing.