Gorstar, WG

Systemic weed control: technical breakdown of Gorstar, WG

The active ingredient in Gorstar, WG is tribenuron-methyl (750 g/kg), a potent sulfonylurea herbicide. It works by inhibiting the acetolactate synthase (ALS) enzyme, effectively halting cell division in the meristematic tissues of target weeds. The formulation as water-dispersible granules ensures high purity and rapid solubility, which prevents nozzle clogging and guarantees consistent field performance through uniform distribution of the active ingredient across leaf surfaces.

Selectivity and target spectrum

As a selective, post-emergence herbicide, Gorstar, WG is specifically engineered for winter wheat, spring wheat, and winter barley. The selectivity mechanism relies on the crop’s ability to rapidly metabolize tribenuron-methyl into inactive compounds. Conversely, susceptible broadleaf weeds—such as common lambsquarters, field mustard, field pennycress, shepherd's purse, common chickweed, cleavers, scentless mayweed, and field thistle—absorb the chemical through leaves and distribute it systemically via the xylem and phloem, leading to rapid cessation of growth and subsequent death.

Application guidelines

The herbicide is applied at a rate of 0.015–0.025 kg/ha, with a limit of one application per growing season. For optimal efficacy, it is crucial to apply the herbicide during the active growth phase of weeds (2 to 4 true leaves). Being a systemic, leaf-applied product, its effectiveness is highly dependent on the plant’s physiological state. With a hazard classification of 3, strict adherence to personal protective equipment protocols is required during handling and application. The high concentration of the active substance allows for optimized logistics and reduced chemical load per hectare, making it a sustainable choice for cereal crop protection.