Marathon

Why "Marathon" is the standard for winter cereal protection

In intensive winter cereal cultivation, the early elimination of weed competition is key to securing high yields. "Marathon," developed by BASF SE (Ludwigshafen, Germany), is a systemic soil-applied herbicide designed to keep fields clean from the very start of the season.

Dual-action weed control

The strength of "Marathon" lies in its active ingredient synergy: pendimethalin and isoproturon. This powerful combination allows for comprehensive protection against a broad spectrum of weeds:

• Pendimethalin: forms a protective soil barrier that inhibits cell division in germinating weeds, effectively controlling cleavers, field pansy, and shepherd's purse.
• Isoproturon: provides systemic activity against weeds that have already begun to emerge, including the hard-to-control loose silky-bent (Apera spica-venti) and cornflower.

By applying this product at a rate of 3–4 L/ha, growers can suppress both broadleaf and grass weeds in a single pass. This minimizes resource competition during the critical tillering phase of the crop.

Efficiency and Application Strategy

As a selective herbicide, "Marathon" offers high crop safety for winter wheat and winter barley, ensuring that your primary crop remains unharmed while weeds are effectively neutralized. Unlike foliar herbicides, its soil-applied nature prevents the problem before the "green wave" of weeds even appears.

To get the best results, remember that "Marathon" is a pre-emergence tool. It requires a well-prepared seedbed—fine tilth and adequate soil moisture are essential to form a uniform herbicidal film. With a single application allowed per season, it serves as a highly predictable and cost-effective component of an integrated weed management program.

It is the ideal choice for professional farmers who prioritize early field establishment and want to avoid the risks associated with late-season weed outbreaks.