Bazagran

Mechanism of Action and Selectivity

"Basagran" from Basf S.A. is based on the active ingredient bentazone (a member of the benzothiadiazinone chemical class). Unlike systemic herbicides that move through the phloem, this product functions as a contact, selective agent. Upon contact with the leaf surface, the active substance inhibits photosynthesis at the Photosystem II level. The result is a rapid cessation of growth in susceptible broad-leaved weeds, such as common lambsquarters, cleavers, or smartweed.

Technical Application Details

• Mode of Action: Selective post-emergence herbicide. Crucially, crops (soybeans, oats, flax, alfalfa, etc.) metabolize bentazone into an inactive form, whereas weeds lack these metabolic defense mechanisms.
• Application Phase: The product is applied exclusively via foliage. Given its contact nature, ensuring thorough coverage of the weed canopy is critical. The spray volume must guarantee complete wetting of the leaf surface.
• Rates and Regulations: The recommended application rate is 2.0–3.0 L/ha. With a pre-harvest interval of only 1 day, it serves as a highly flexible tool for intensive farming systems.

Practical Value

The use of bentazone in "Basagran" is a proven solution for combating difficult broad-leaved weeds, including field bindweed. Due to its Class 3 hazard classification, the product is relatively safe when regulations are followed, allowing it to be integrated into protection programs for soybeans, hops, mint, and cereals. The lack of soil residual activity eliminates crop rotation restrictions, enabling subsequent planting of any crop without the risk of carry-over effect.