Bentazon

Type: Herbicide

Mode of Action: 

• Group 6: Photosynthesis inhibitors

Common Product Names: Basagran 

What is it?

Bentazon is a post-emergent herbicide primarily used to control broadleaf weeds and sedges in crops such as soybeans, rice, corn, peanuts, and dry beans. It is selective, targeting broadleaf weeds and sedges without harming many grass species. Bentazon is effective against a wide range of problematic weeds, providing a reliable solution for farmers looking to protect their crops from unwanted plant competition. Bentazon is usually applied as a foliar spray, where it is absorbed through the leaves and translocated to the site of action within the plant.

How does it work?

Bentazon disrupts the photosynthetic process in target plants by inhibiting the photosystem II electron transport chain. This inhibition leads to a rapid reduction in the plant's ability to produce energy, causing the plant to cease growing and eventually die. The effects of Bentazon can often be seen within a few days of application, with visible symptoms such as leaf chlorosis (yellowing) and necrosis (tissue death) appearing shortly thereafter.

Benefits

• Post-emergent Control: Bentazon is effective when applied to actively growing weeds, making it ideal for post-emergent weed control.
• Broad Spectrum Activity: Effective against a wide variety of broadleaf weeds and sedges.
• Quick Action: Visible results can typically be seen within a few days of application.