Pretilachlor 50% EC (Prince): The Ultimate Herbicide Guide for Paddy Farmers

Introduction

Pretilachlor 50% EC, commercially known as Prince, is a selective herbicide that has revolutionized weed management in rice cultivation. This chloroacetamide herbicide provides exceptional control of grassy weeds and some broadleaf weeds in transplanted and direct-seeded rice. This 800-word expert guide delivers comprehensive technical information about Prince herbicide, covering its unique chemistry, mode of action, application techniques, safety measures, and resistance management – all presented in original, thoroughly researched content.

Technical Specifications

1. Chemical Profile

Parameter	Specification
IUPAC Name	2-Chloro-2′,6′-diethyl-N-(2-propoxyethyl)acetanilide
Molecular Formula	C₁₇H₂₆ClNO₂
Molecular Weight	311.85 g/mol
Water Solubility	50 mg/L (20°C)
Vapor Pressure	0.4 mPa (25°C)

2. Formulation Advantages

50% emulsifiable concentrate for cost-effective weed control
Built-in safener for enhanced crop safety
Micro-encapsulation technology extends residual activity
Low volatility formulation minimizes drift risk

Mode of Action: Herbicidal Mechanism

Pretilachlor works as a very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA) inhibitor:

Absorption & Translocation
- Absorbed primarily by coleoptile and roots
- Limited upward movement in plants
Biochemical Action
- Inhibits fatty acid elongase enzymes
- Disrupts cell membrane synthesis
- Prevents cell division and growth
Visual Symptoms in Weeds
- 3-5 days: Stunted growth
- 7-10 days: Chlorosis
- 14-21 days: Complete suppression

Weed Spectrum & Crop Safety

A. Controlled Weeds

Grassy Weeds

Echinochloa crus-galli (Barnyard grass) – 95% control
Leptochloa chinensis (Sprangletop) – 90% suppression
Cyperus difformis (Smallflower umbrella sedge) – 85% control

Broadleaf Weeds

Monochoria vaginalis (Monochoria) – 80% suppression
Marsilea quadrifolia (Water clover) – 75% control

B. Application Methods

Rice Cultivation Method	Application Timing	Rate (L/ha)	Water Management
Transplanted rice	3-5 DAT*	1.0-1.25	2-3 cm standing water
Wet-seeded rice	7-10 DAS**	0.75-1.0	Saturated soil
Dry-seeded rice	Pre-emergence	1.0-1.25	Immediate irrigation

*DAT = Days After Transplanting
**DAS = Days After Sowing

Precision Application Guide

1. Optimal Application Parameters

Parameter	Recommendation
Spray Volume	500-600 L/ha
Nozzle Type	Flat fan (FF 11002)
Pressure	30-40 psi
Droplet Size	300-400 μm

2. Tank Mix Compatibility

Synergistic Combinations:
- Pyrazosulfuron-ethyl (broad-spectrum control)
- Bensulfuron-methyl (sedges control)
Incompatible With:
- Strongly alkaline solutions (pH>8)

3. Resistance Management

Herbicide Rotation Strategy:

First Application: Pretilachlor (Group 15)
Second Application: Penoxsulam (Group 2)
Third Application: Bispyribac-sodium (Group 2)

Resistance Warning Signs:

Reduced control at recommended rates
Weed escapes with normal applications

Dealers: https://www.peptechbio.com/products/pretilachlor-50-e-c/

Environmental & Safety Profile

1. Toxicity Data

Organism	LD₅₀/LC₅₀	Risk Level
Rats (oral)	>2,000 mg/kg	WHO Class U
Fish (96h)	0.5 mg/L	Moderate
Earthworms	>1,000 mg/kg	Low
Honeybees	>100 μg/bee	Practically non-toxic

2. Safety Measures

PPE Requirements:
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Face shield
- Long-sleeved clothing
Environmental Protections:
- 10m buffer from water bodies
- Avoid application before heavy rain

Economic Benefits

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Parameter	Value
Cost/ha (average)	₹600-800
Weed Control Duration	30-45 days
Yield Protection	25-40%
Labor Savings	5-6 man-days/ha

Storage & Handling

1. Storage Conditions

Temperature: 10-30°C
Container: Original HDPE
Shelf Life: 24 months

2. Spill Management

Small Spills: Absorb with sand or soil
Large Spills: Contain with clay barriers
Decontamination: 5% sodium carbonate solution

Conclusion: Best Practices

Prince 50% EC delivers optimal weed control in rice when:

Applied at correct growth stages
Used with proper water management
Combined with cultural control methods
Rotated with different MOA herbicides

Final Tip: Maintain 2-3 cm standing water for 5-7 days after application.

Disclaimer: Always follow label instructions and local regulations.

Author Profile

Sourashis Chanda

Author (Intern) at Bitlance Tech Hub Private Limited | [email protected]

Sourashis Chanda brings readers their unique perspective on Business, Economy, Health and Fitness. With a background in Health and Physical Fitness of 2years, I am dedicated to exploring [what they aim to achieve with their writing, on the sustainable Economy of the country, various pro tips about business, latest goverment news, with some tips in health are and Fitness.