Clethodim

The original drug is amber transparent liquid. Relative density 1.15

(20℃ ), vapor pressure 1.3×10-5 Pa (20℃ ), soluble in many organic

solvents, unstable to light.

Selective herbicide can control annual and perennial grass weeds

Clethodim is a selective, post-emergent herbicide widely used to control annual and perennial grasses in various broadleaf crops. As a member of the cyclohexanedione chemical family, clethodim works by inhibiting lipid biosynthesis in grasses, leading to their death while leaving broadleaf plants unaffected.

Key Features

1. Selective Control: Targets grass weeds without harming broadleaf crops.

2. Post-Emergent Activity: Effective on actively growing grasses.

3. Systemic Action: Moves through the plant to reach growing points, ensuring complete control.

4. Versatile Application: Suitable for use in row crops, vegetables, and orchards.

Applications

Crops Treated

• Soybeans

• Cotton

• Sunflowers

• Peanuts

• Vegetables

Weeds Controlled

• Annual grasses: Foxtails (Setaria spp.), barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli), and crabgrass (Digitaria spp.).

• Perennial grasses: Quackgrass (Elymus repens), johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense), and bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon).

Mechanism of Action

Clethodim inhibits acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase), an enzyme essential for fatty acid synthesis in plants. By disrupting lipid production, clethodim halts cell membrane formation and growth in grasses, leading to their death. Its systemic nature ensures thorough weed control by targeting both shoots and roots.

Advantages

1. Highly Selective: Safe for use in broadleaf crops, even in mixed weed infestations.

2. Effective on Tough Grasses: Controls a wide range of annual and perennial grass species.

3. Systemic Movement: Ensures complete weed control, including underground rhizomes.

4. Flexible Timing: Can be applied at various growth stages of weeds.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Handling and Storage

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during handling and application.

• Store in a secure, cool, and dry place away from food, feed, and water sources.

Environmental Impact

• Low Soil Activity: Minimal residual effect in soil, reducing environmental contamination.

• Aquatic Toxicity: Harmful to aquatic organisms; avoid application near water bodies.

• Wildlife Safety: Generally safe for non-target organisms when used according to label instructions.

Regulatory Compliance

• Approved for use under specific guidelines in various countries. Follow local regulations for application and disposal.

Limitations

• Grass-Specific: Ineffective against broadleaf weeds and sedges.

• Resistance Risk: Repeated use may lead to resistance in certain grass species.

• Environmental Sensitivity: Requires careful management to prevent runoff into water bodies.

Conclusion

Clethodim is a reliable and efficient herbicide for managing grass weeds in broadleaf crops. Its selective action, systemic control, and versatility make it an essential tool for farmers. Proper application techniques and adherence to safety guidelines ensure effective results while minimizing risks.