Description

Tata Laafa (Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% W/W SL)

Category: Herbicide
Manufacturer: Tata Rallis India Ltd.
Active Ingredient: Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% W/W SL
Type: Non-selective contact herbicide

Introduction

Tata Laafa is a broad-spectrum contact herbicide from Tata Rallis, designed to control a wide variety of annual and perennial weeds. Its active ingredient, Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% W/W SL, acts by inhibiting glutamine synthetase, leading to ammonia accumulation and the eventual death of the weed.

It is highly effective for use in glyphosate-resistant weed management programs, making it an excellent alternative where repeated glyphosate use has reduced efficacy.

Composition & Mode of Action

• Active Ingredient: Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% W/W SL

• Formulation Type: Soluble Liquid (SL)

• Chemical Group: Phosphinic Acid Derivative

• Mode of Action:
  Glufosinate inhibits the enzyme glutamine synthetase, resulting in the accumulation of ammonia in plant tissues, disrupting photosynthesis and causing rapid leaf desiccation.

• Activity: Contact, non-selective, and fast-acting on green plant tissues.

Key Benefits

✅ Broad-spectrum weed control – Kills both annual and perennial broadleaf and grassy weeds.
✅ Excellent alternative to glyphosate – Effective against glyphosate-tolerant or resistant weeds.
✅ Quick knockdown – Visible results within 2–3 days after application.
✅ Safe for standing crops (directed spray) – When used as a directed spray in crops like cotton or sugarcane.
✅ No residual soil activity – Safe for crop rotation and subsequent sowing.
✅ Compatible with integrated weed management (IWM) programs.

Recommended Crops

Tata Laafa is recommended for use in the following crops:

• Cotton (BT cotton / transgenic cotton) – for post-emergence weed management between crop rows.

• Maize – for inter-row weed control.

• Sugarcane – for controlling broadleaf weeds and grasses.

• Tea, Coffee, and Orchards (Banana, Mango, etc.) – for weed control under trees.

• Non-crop areas – like bunds, field boundaries, roadsides, and industrial premises.

Target Weeds Controlled

Tata Laafa effectively controls:

• Broadleaf Weeds: Amaranthus spp., Chenopodium spp., Portulaca spp., Euphorbia spp.

• Grassy Weeds: Cynodon dactylon (Doob grass), Digitaria spp., Echinochloa spp.

• Sedges: Cyperus rotundus (Nut sedge)

Dosage & Application Guidelines

Important Tips:

• Use flat fan or flood jet nozzle for uniform coverage.

• Avoid drift on green parts of main crop (since it’s a non-selective herbicide).

• Apply on actively growing weeds.

• Avoid spraying before rainfall or irrigation within 6 hours of application.

Safety & Precautions

⚠️ Always wear protective gear: gloves, mask, and goggles.
⚠️ Avoid drift onto desirable plants or crops.
⚠️ Do not mix with alkaline pesticides or fertilizers.
⚠️ Wash spray equipment thoroughly after use.
⚠️ Keep away from reach of children and livestock.
⚠️ Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and moisture.

Compatibility & Resistance Management

• Compatible with most neutral pH herbicides (avoid mixing with strong acids or bases).

• Rotate herbicides with different modes of action to prevent resistance build-up.

• Alternate with glyphosate, paraquat, or selective herbicides as part of an integrated weed management plan.

Storage & Shelf Life

• Store in a well-ventilated, dry area at room temperature.

• Shelf life: 2 years from the date of manufacture (in original sealed container).

Economic & Agronomic Benefits

? Provides excellent control of both grasses and broadleaf weeds.
? Reduces manual weeding cost and labor dependency.
? Improves crop growth by reducing weed competition.
? Helps in maintaining cleaner and more productive fields.
? Increases yield and profitability through effective weed management.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What type of herbicide is Tata Laafa?
A1. Tata Laafa is a non-selective, contact herbicide containing Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% W/W SL.

Q2. Is it safe for all crops?
A2. It should not contact green parts of desirable crops. Use as a directed spray in row crops like cotton, maize, and sugarcane.

Q3. How soon can I see results after spraying?
A3. Visible wilting and yellowing appear within 2–3 days, with complete weed death in 7–10 days.

Q4. Can Tata Laafa be used instead of Glyphosate?
A4. Yes. It’s a strong alternative where glyphosate resistance is observed, offering broad control without residual soil impact.

Q5. Can it be mixed with other herbicides?
A5. It can be mixed with certain compatible herbicides, but always perform a jar test before tank-mixing.

Q6. Does it affect soil fertility or next crop?
A6. No. It has no residual effect in the soil and is safe for subsequent crops.

Q7. What precautions should be taken while spraying?
A7. Use drift guards, avoid windy conditions, and prevent spray contact on crop foliage.

✅ Conclusion

Tata Laafa (Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% W/W SL) is a fast-acting, reliable herbicide for farmers seeking effective control of stubborn weeds in major crops and non-crop areas. Its contact action, broad-spectrum efficacy, and glyphosate-alternative profile make it an essential tool in modern weed management.

For best results, use Tata Laafa as part of an integrated weed management program, ensuring correct dosage, timing, and safety measures.