Dimethenamid
Description
Dimethenamid is a highly potent active ingredient belonging to the chloroacetamide chemical class. It is used in agricultural practices primarily as a selective herbicide, designed to control a wide spectrum of annual grassy weeds and certain broad-leaved weeds in various field crops.
The mechanism of action for dimethenamid involves inhibiting cell division and protein synthesis in germinating weed seeds. Once applied to the soil, the substance is absorbed by the coleoptile and roots of the weed seedlings, leading to their death before they emerge from the soil or at the very early stages of development.
Dimethenamid is commonly applied to crops such as maize, sunflowers, soybeans, sugar beets, and sorghum. The most effective application timing is pre-planting or pre-emergence, which establishes a protective barrier in the soil, allowing the target crop to grow without competition from weeds during critical early growth stages.
The efficiency of this herbicide is significantly influenced by soil moisture, which is essential for activating the chemical. In dry conditions, agronomic recommendations often include mechanical incorporation into the soil at shallow depths to ensure the herbicide remains active and provides consistent weed suppression despite moisture deficits.
When handling dimethenamid, strictly adhere to safety protocols, including the use of protective clothing, gloves, and respiratory protection. It is crucial to prevent drift to non-target areas and to follow local regulations regarding application rates and crop rotation requirements to ensure environmental safety and efficacy.
- High systemic activity in the soil.
- Effective against grass species like Digitaria and Setaria.
- Extended residual control.
- Safe for the crop when applied according to the label.
Status in the European Union
Not approved in the EU
- CAS number
- 87674-68-8
- Category (EU)
- HB - Herbicide
- ADI
- 0.02 mg/kg bw/day
- ARfD
- 0.25 mg/kg bw
- AOEL
- 0.04 mg/kg bw/day
Regulatory status data: EU Pesticides Database © European Union, CC BY 4.0. EU status is for reference only and does not replace national registration in your country.