BASF launches herbicide Atectra in Brazil to control wide-leaf weeds

By Leonardo Gottems, Reporter for AgroPages 
 

BASF recently launched, in Brazil, the herbicide, Atectra (dicamba 480 g/L), for use in the pre-planting of soybeans. 
 

A by-product of the chemical group, benzoic acids, the new pesticide is designed for use against wide-leaf weeds that are difficult to control, such as Conyza bonariensis, which is very common in the country. 
 

According to the manufacturer, the solution will help maintain the productivity of soybean crop in a no-till system. The herbicide, which is hormonal, systemic and post-emergence, simulates the action of auxin hormones, which specifically target wide-leaf weeds. 
 

BASF explained that the product is absorbed by the leaves and roots through phloem and xylem and is then rapidly transported around other parts of the plant, accumulating in areas of active growth and inhibiting development. “Applications should be done during full vegetative growth and under recommended conditions, and requires a minimum of four hours to be completely absorbed,” recommended the company. 
 

According to its manufacturer, Atectra is also recommended for use during the desiccation of the pre-harvest of soybeans, to anticipate and homogenize the harvest. 
 

“It is fundamental that farmers think about the production system and use adequate tools and good agricultural practices during the whole cycle, which will enable them to effectively manage weeds and maintain productivity and quality. BASF understands the requirements of rural producers and will provide, for the next crop, two innovative technologies for controlling weeds that affect soybeans,” said Hélio Cabral Costa, soybean marketing manager at BASF, about the herbicide, Amplexus, which was also launched recently.