Sharpen

Manufacturer
BASF
Category
Herbicides
Registered until
N/A
Registration number
Active materials
Links

General Information
SHARPEN is a novel herbicide for use in tank mix with knockdown herbicides such as glyphosate to enhance the speed of knockdown and to broaden the weed spectrum of the knockdown partner. Symptoms of herbicidal activity are visible soon after application with death ensuing in a few days. SHARPEN is systemic but thorough coverage of the target weed is necessary for best results. Best results are obtained from application to small, actively growing weeds. Conditions conducive to maximum photosynthesis (moist, warm, bright sunshine) are ideal. SHARPEN also assists in the rapid desiccation and reduction in palatability to stock of poisonous weeds such as ragwort.

Symptoms: SHARPEN is rapidly absorbed through the roots and foliage of plants. Within a few hours following application, the foliage of susceptible weeds shows signs of desiccation, and in subsequent days necrosis and death of the plant. Extremes in environmental conditions e.g. temperature and moisture, soil conditions and cultural practices may affect the activity of SHARPEN. Under warm moist conditions, herbicide symptoms may be accelerated. Under very dry conditions, the expression of herbicidal symptoms is delayed, and weeds hardened off by drought are less susceptible to SHARPEN.

Weeds controlled: When used in tank mixture with glyphosate SHARPEN increases the speed of knockdown of grasses such as annual poa and ryegrass; and broadleaved weeds such as dandelion, docks, clover, mallows, plantains and tall willow herb. When used in tank mixture with a residual grass herbicide in maize crops SHARPEN will control fathen, black nightshade, broadleaf docks (seedling), willow weed and wireweed, and will suppress pink shamrock.

Resistance Management
SHARPEN contains a herbicide from the PPO (protoporphyrinogen-IX-oxidase) group, HRAC GROUP E HERBICIDE . Resistance to SHARPEN could develop from excessive use. To minimise this risk use strictly in accordance with label instructions. Frequency of application is to be strictly in accordance with the Directions for Use. SHARPEN should be used in a programme which incorporates effective herbicide products with alternate modes of action.

Beware
Apply this product carefully. Spray drift may cause serious damage to other desirable plants.

Adjuvants
SHARPEN should be used with a suitable adjuvant such as an esterified canola oil (e.g. Hasten) or a silicon based product except when used pre-emergence in maize.

Compatibility
SHARPEN is compatible with most commonly used herbicides, adjuvants and insecticides. Follow the precautions and the directions for use on the partner product label.

Mixing and Application
Half-fill the spray tank with clean water and start the agitation. Add the required amount of SHARPEN directly into the partly filled spray tank with agitation operating. Rinse any empty containers thoroughly and add rinsate to the spray tank. Add partner herbicides and adjuvant. Complete filling and maintain agitation until spraying is completed. SHARPEN can be applied through conventional spray equipment used for glyphosate application. Care must be taken to avoid drift. Ensure the water rate is sufficient for complete coverage of target weeds.

Drift Management
As SHARPEN is used with glyphosate, application should be undertaken with minimization of drift in mind. Avoid spray solution contacting any desirable plants. Do NOT apply when conditions favour drift e.g. high winds or incorrect pressure and nozzle setup.

Rainfall/Irrigation
SHARPEN is rainfast once dried on the crop. Do NOT apply if rainfall is expected within 1 hour of application.

Tank Cleaning:
To avoid injury to subsequent spayed crops, thoroughly remove all traces of chemical from mixing and spraying equipment. Flush equipment thoroughly with water after use.

Crop Plant Back & Rotational Recommendations
SHARPEN, when used as directed, does not provide long term residual activity. Refer to the table below for the application-to-sow intervals. For crops not specified, such as tomato and fodder beet, a soil sample must be checked for suitability for planting by means of a germination test prior to full planting. If in doubt contact your spray representative. Check the label of any partner mixed with SHARPEN to determine any other plant back periods or restrictions on use (see label).

Handling
Do NOT handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood. This product must be under the personal control of an APPROVED HANDLER when applied in a wide dispersive manner or used by a commercial contractor.

Spillage
Prevent further spillage and product from entering waterways. Wear overalls, gloves, footwear and goggles. Sweep and shovel up spill and place in sealable container labelled for disposal. Avoid dust formation. Wash affected area with water and detergent. Absorb and collect washings and place in the same sealable container as the spilled material. Dispose of the waste safely in suitable landfill.

Personal Protection
When mixing or applying, wear overalls buttoned to the neck and wrist, suitable footwear, a washable hat, suitable chemical resistant gloves, and safety goggles or face shield.

General Safety and Hygiene Measures
Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Avoid inhalation of spray mist. Do NOT eat, drink or smoke while using this product. Remove protective clothing and wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water before meals and after work. Wash protective clothing immediately after use. Store work clothing separately.

Use
Apply by ground based methods only. Do NOT apply onto or into water. Apply with well-maintained and accurately calibrated equipment. Prevent spray drift onto other crops and non-target plants outside of the target area or severe damage may result. Clean out application equipment thoroughly after use. Do NOT contaminate water when disposing of equipment wash waters. Wear personal protective equipment if re-entry work is required within 24 hours of application where this product has been applied at 30 g/ha or greater. Public access is not permitted during this period.

Restraints
Do NOT use on any crop not specified on the label.

Except on planted maize crops, do NOT apply within one day of planting or if rain is expected immediately after planting.

Storage
Store in original container, tightly closed in a dry, cool, well-ventilated place away from food and animal feeds. Protect against moisture and from direct sunlight. Stores containing 100 kg or more of this product require emergency response plans and secondary containment systems and are subject to signage. When stored appropriately this product should show no significant degradation for two years from the date of manufacture. Contact your supplier for further information about the use of any product that is older than this.

Registered for culturesRatePreharvest Interval
Apples25 g28
Pears25 g28
Corn150 g28
Sweet corn150 g28
Pasture25 g3