Icanos, MD, herbicide

Technological Advantage of Oil Dispersion

The Ikanos, OD herbicide from Nufarm is based on nicosulfuron in a modern formulation: Oil Dispersion (OD). Unlike standard suspension concentrates, the OD formulation ensures better droplet adhesion to the leaf surface and significantly accelerates the translaminar migration of the active ingredient into the plant tissue. This is critical when targeting grass weeds like quackgrass or yellow foxtail, which possess a thick waxy cuticle.

Systemic Weed Control

Nicosulfuron, an acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitor, blocks the synthesis of essential amino acids, causing immediate cessation of weed growth. Due to its systemic action, Ikanos is rapidly translocated through the plant's vascular system, reaching the growing points. Application between the 3 and 10-leaf stage of corn effectively cleans fields of a wide spectrum of broadleaf and grass weeds:

• Annual grasses: barnyard grass, yellow foxtail.
• Perennial grasses: quackgrass.
• Broadleaf weeds: common ragweed, pigweed, common lambsquarters, shepherd's purse, common chickweed.

Practical Application Insights

The application rate ranges from 1.0 to 2.0 L/ha, depending on weed density and species composition. The oil-based carrier allows the herbicide to remain stable on the leaf even under challenging weather conditions. It is important to note that Ikanos is a selective herbicide, completely safe for corn when used according to label instructions, requiring only one application per season.

The product falls under toxicity class 3, requiring standard safety protocols during tank mixing. Integrating Ikanos into a corn protection program offers a high-tech solution for controlling stubborn weeds without the risk of phytotoxicity to the crop.