Crop Protection

ADAMA Launches Actagon® Pre-Emergence Herbicide for Wheat Growers in India

Ready-mix pyroxasulfone + metribuzin formulation targets season-long control of Phalaris minor in key wheat-growing states

23 September 2026, Beijing: ADAMA Ltd. has announced the launch of Actagon®, a new pre-emergence herbicide for wheat in India, introducing a ready-mix liquid formulation designed to simplify weed management and improve control of herbicide-resistant Phalaris minor.

The product combines pyroxasulfone and metribuzin in a single pre-formulated solution, eliminating the need for on-farm tank mixing. Applied before crop emergence, Actagon® is designed to provide long-lasting control of both grass and broadleaf weeds while supporting resistance management through its dual mode of action.

Addressing a major wheat weed challenge

The launch is primarily focused on Punjab and Haryana, two of India’s largest wheat-producing states where Phalaris minor has become one of the most persistent and economically damaging weeds. Increasing resistance to commonly used post-emergence herbicides has intensified the need for effective pre-emergence alternatives.

According to ADAMA, the ready-mix formulation can reduce operational complexity by enabling a single pre-emergence application rather than multiple herbicide interventions during the growing season.

“Resistance in Phalaris minor is making weed management increasingly challenging for wheat growers in India,” said Germain Boulay, Head of Global Herbicides at ADAMA. “With Actagon®, we are introducing a simple, reliable pre-emergence solution that helps improve weed control, reduce operational complexity, and support long-term field productivity.”

Field trials demonstrated residual weed control

ADAMA said field trials conducted across major wheat-growing regions in India demonstrated strong residual control of Phalaris minor under high weed pressure. The evaluations also indicated improved crop performance following a single pre-emergence application, supporting season-long weed suppression.

Actagon® has received registration in India and is scheduled for commercial launch during the 2026 wheat season.

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