Stefazon, RK (bentazon, 480 g/l)

Technical Insights: How Stefazon Handles Weed Pressure

Stefazon, SL (480 g/L bentazone) is a specialized tool in the benzothiadiazinone class, engineered for targeted weed management. Unlike systemic herbicides that translocate via vascular tissue, Stefazon acts as a contact-selective agent. Upon application to the leaves, the active ingredient interrupts the photosynthetic electron transport chain, causing rapid cellular starvation and necrosis in susceptible weed species.

Practical Application and Delivery

As a post-emergence insurance herbicide, Stefazon is designed for maximum efficiency when applied directly to the foliage of active-growing weeds. The Soluble Concentrate (SL) formulation ensures superior water solubility and rapid uptake through the waxy cuticle of the leaves, minimizing the risk of wash-off and ensuring the herbicide reaches its target sites effectively.

Weed Spectrum and Crop Safety

Manufactured by DDE Farm AG (Liechtenstein), this selective herbicide is tailored for use on soybeans, flax, peas, and cereals. It addresses critical crop competition by eliminating hard-to-control dicotyledonous weeds, including:

• Common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) and jimsonweed.
• Black nightshade and common lambsquarters.
• Velvetleaf and redroot pigweed.
• Wild mustard and shepherd's purse.

With an application rate of 1.5–3 L/ha, Stefazon offers the versatility needed to address varying levels of infestation. Since the product is limited to one application per season, it serves as a powerful singular corrective step in integrated weed management programs. Falling under Hazard Class 3, the herbicide requires adherence to standard safety protocols for chemical application, ensuring stable performance with a focus on crop safety.