What is Emamectin Benzoate?
Emamectin Benzoate is a semi-synthetic avermectin insecticide derived from the naturally occurring soil bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis. The 5% SG (soluble granule) formulation is widely used in Indian agriculture for its high efficacy against lepidopteran pests — the group of insects that includes bollworms, fruit borers, stem borers, and caterpillars. Unlike broad-spectrum organophosphate or pyrethroid insecticides, Emamectin Benzoate works through a highly specific mode of action: it activates chloride ion channels in insect nerve and muscle cells, causing paralysis and death within hours of ingestion. This specificity makes it effective at low doses and reduces the risk of resistance compared to older chemical classes.
Correct Dosage for Indian Crops
The recommended dose of Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG is 80–100 grams per acre, dissolved in 150–200 litres of water per acre as a foliar spray. Always dissolve the granules in a small quantity of water first, then dilute to the full spray volume. For cotton bollworm control, apply at first sign of larval infestation — typically when 5% of plants show damage. For vegetables such as chilli, tomato, and cabbage, apply preventively from flowering onwards when pest pressure is expected. Do not exceed two consecutive applications; rotate with a different insecticide class to prevent resistance development.
Compatible Crops in India
Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG is registered and recommended for the following crops in India: cotton (for bollworm and whitefly larva control), chilli and tomato (fruit borer and leafminer), cabbage and cauliflower (diamondback moth), chickpea and pigeon pea (pod borer / Helicoverpa). It is not recommended for crops grown in open water systems or for application near water bodies due to toxicity to aquatic organisms.
Target Pests
Emamectin Benzoate is highly effective against the following pests: American bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) in cotton and tomato; pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) in cotton; fruit and shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) in brinjal; diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) in cruciferous vegetables; spodoptera (fall armyworm) in maize; and stem borers in rice and maize. It acts primarily through ingestion, so the pest must feed on the treated plant surface to be affected. Cessation of feeding begins within 2–4 hours, with death occurring within 1–3 days.
Price of Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG in India
Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG is available in India starting from ₹350 for 100 grams. The 250 g and 500 g pack sizes offer a better per-gram price for farmers with larger holdings. Branded formulations from major agrochemical companies can cost significantly more — No Brands supplies the same active ingredient at honest prices without the brand markup. Prices vary by region and season; purchase from authorised dealers or directly on Farmkart to ensure product authenticity.
Application Method and Timing
Apply Emamectin Benzoate in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and avoid peak pollinator activity. Use a well-calibrated knapsack sprayer and ensure complete canopy coverage, including the underside of leaves where larvae feed. The pre-harvest interval (PHI) is 7 days for most crops — do not harvest before this period. In integrated pest management (IPM) programs, Emamectin Benzoate can be used as a curative spray when pest populations cross the economic threshold, allowing biological control agents to operate during non-spray periods.
Safety and Precautions
Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG is highly toxic to bees. Do not spray on flowering crops during peak bee activity (mid-morning to afternoon). Wear full personal protective equipment: gloves, mask, goggles, and full-body coveralls. Wash thoroughly after handling. Store in original packaging in a cool, dry place away from children, food, and feed. In case of accidental ingestion, contact a doctor immediately and show the product label. Dispose of empty containers safely — do not reuse for food or water storage.