Citadel 25 OD

Technological Excellence in Barnyard Grass Control

"Citadel 25 OD" by Corteva is a highly specialized tool designed for protecting rice and sorghum crops. The primary engineering goal of this product is the total control of barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli) in intensive farming systems. The secret to its efficacy lies in its chemical composition and an innovative formulation.

Active Ingredient and Selectivity

The core of the product is penoxsulam, which belongs to the triazolopyrimidine chemical class. Its mode of action involves inhibiting the acetolactate synthase (ALS) enzyme within the weed. This action halts the synthesis of essential amino acids, leading to an immediate growth cessation of the barnyard grass and its subsequent death. Due to its systemic action, the herbicide translocates through the plant tissues to the growth points, which is crucial when targeting established weeds.

Advantages of OD Formulation

The Oil Dispersion (OD) formulation is a proprietary technology from Corteva designed to ensure maximum adhesion to the leaf surface. Unlike standard emulsion concentrates, the oil-based carrier provides:

• Superior adherence to waxy leaf surfaces, which is common in rice crops.
• Minimizes the risk of wash-off by precipitation shortly after application.
• Enhances translaminar activity, allowing the active ingredient to penetrate the leaf cuticle barrier more rapidly.

Field Application

The product acts as a selective post-emergence (insurance) herbicide. The restriction of one application per season is essential for resistance management: while ALS-enzyme inhibition is highly effective, it requires strict adherence to usage protocols. The application rate varies from 0.5 to 1.0 L/ha (depending on weed growth stage and infestation density), while in specific high-density scenarios, the dosage may be adjusted above 3.0 L/ha according to technical guidelines.

By operating with surgical precision, "Citadel 25 OD" effectively releases the crop from competition with barnyard grass without causing phytotoxic stress to the crop itself, making it an indispensable link in modern rice and sorghum production chains.