Haloxyfop-P-methyl (D) is a selective post-emergence herbicide belonging to the aryloxyphenoxypropionate (AOPP) group, commonly known as “FOP” herbicides. It is the methyl ester of the R-enantiomer (P-isomer) of Haloxyfop, which provides higher biological activity compared to the racemic mixture.
Mode of Action (MOA): Inhibits the enzyme acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), which is essential for fatty acid biosynthesis in grasses.
Selectivity: Broadleaf crops are tolerant, while susceptible grassy weeds are killed.
Absorption & Translocation: Taken up through foliage, translocated in both xylem and phloem, and concentrated in meristematic tissues, leading to cessation of grass growth and plant death.
Target Weeds:
Annual grasses: Echinochloa spp. (barnyardgrass), Setaria spp. (foxtails), Digitaria spp. (crabgrass), Eleusine indica (goosegrass).
Perennial grasses: Cynodon dactylon (Bermudagrass), Sorghum halepense (Johnson grass).
Major Crops:
Soybean
Groundnut (peanut)
Cotton
Vegetables (tomato, chili, onion, etc.)
Tea, coffee, and orchards (directed spray in inter-rows)
Use Pattern:
Applied post-emergence, typically 10–25 days after sowing, when grasses are at 2–4 leaf stage.
Works best under active weed growth with adequate soil moisture.
Highly selective: Controls grassy weeds without harming broadleaf crops.
Systemic action: Kills roots and underground parts of perennial grasses.
Low application rates: Effective at relatively small dosages compared to non-selective herbicides.
Wide crop safety: Compatible with a variety of dicot crops.
Useful in rotations: Reduces reliance on non-selective herbicides and supports integrated weed management.
Parameter | Description | Typical Value |
---|---|---|
Common Name | Haloxyfop-P-methyl (D) | |
Chemical Class | Aryloxyphenoxypropionate (FOP) | |
IUPAC Name | (R)-2-[4-(3-chloro-5-trifluoromethyl-2-pyridyloxy)phenoxy]propionic acid, methyl ester | |
Molecular Formula | C₁₆H₁₃ClF₃NO₄ | |
Molecular Weight | ~373.7 g/mol | |
Formulation Types | 108 g/L EC, 104 g/L EC, 240 g/L EC | |
Mode of Action | ACCase inhibitor (HRAC Group 1) | |
Application Rate | 50 – 100 g a.i./ha (depending on crop & weed stage) | |
Appearance | Clear to amber liquid (formulated EC) | |
Toxicity | Oral LD₅₀ (rat): > 2,000 mg/kg (low to moderate) | |
Residual Activity | Limited soil activity; mainly acts via foliage |
Q1: Can Haloxyfop-P-methyl be used in cereals like rice or wheat?
No. Cereals are grasses, and this herbicide would kill them. It is only safe in broadleaf crops.
Q2: How long after spraying can crops be irrigated?
Avoid irrigation for at least 6–8 hours after application to allow full absorption.
Q3: Is Haloxyfop effective on broadleaf weeds?
No, it specifically targets grass weeds. Broadleaf weeds are unaffected.
Q4: Can it be tank-mixed with other herbicides?
Yes, it can be mixed with broadleaf herbicides (like Imazethapyr, Bentazone, or 2,4-D) to provide broad-spectrum control. Always check compatibility before mixing.
Q5: How long does it take to see results?
Grass weeds stop growing within 2–3 days, with visible yellowing and necrosis appearing in 7–14 days.