Pendimethalin 38.7% CS in cotton

Pendimethalin 38.7% CS (capsule suspension) is the modern formulation of pendimethalin, sold in India as BASF Stomp Xtra, Albaugh Antalis and other brands. It is the standard pre-emergent herbicide in cotton, controlling annual grass and broadleaf weeds for 30-45 days after sowing.

Composition / Active ingredient

Active ingredient: Pendimethalin
Formulation: 38.7% CS (capsule suspension)
Chemical class: Dinitroaniline

Mode of action

Pendimethalin inhibits microtubule assembly during mitosis. It binds to tubulin, preventing polymerisation into the spindle fibres needed for cell division. Treated weed seedlings stop root and shoot elongation at germination and die before emergence. It is classified under HRAC Group 3. The CS formulation encapsulates the active in micro-capsules that release slowly, giving:

Better soil persistence than the older EC formulation
Reduced volatility (lower loss of active to air)
Lower crop staining

Target use and dose

Standard cotton dose is 600-700 ml/acre, sprayed within 1-3 days of sowing on moist soil before crop and weed emergence. The herbicide kills germinating seedlings of annual grasses (barnyard grass, crab grass, foxtail) and broadleaf weeds (Trianthema, Amaranthus, Digera). It does not control established weeds and has limited activity on sedges.

Safety and regulatory status

Pendimethalin is bound tightly to soil organic matter; leaching is minimal but residue can carry over to sensitive rotational crops in dry conditions. It is non-systemic and safe for the established cotton crop. Pre-emergent pendimethalin is typically followed by a post-emergent pass of Hitweed Maxx Cotton or Kevat Ultra Cotton at 2-4 leaf stage, with Upl Sweep Power Glufosinate for bund knockdown.

References

ANTALIS — Pendimethalin 38.7% CS. Albaugh India.
Stomp Xtra. BASF India.