Introduction of Seltima Fungicide
Rice farmers often struggle with fungal diseases that silently cut down yield and quality. Whether it’s sheath blight, dirty panicle, or blast, timely protection is the key to harvesting a healthy and profitable crop. Seltima Fungicide, developed by BASF, has emerged as a powerful solution designed specifically to safeguard rice crops with long-lasting action and excellent crop safety. Its unique formulation ensures effective disease control while protecting the plant from stress, resulting in better tillering, stronger roots, and higher grain quality.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything farmers need to know about Seltima — from how it works to recommended doses, benefits, usage timing, and alternatives.
Table of Contents
What is Seltima Fungicide?
Seltima Fungicide is an innovative fungicide powered by F500® (Pyraclostrobin), a premium broad-spectrum strobilurin molecule known for its exceptional preventive and curative properties. Unlike conventional fungicides that quickly wash off or degrade, Seltima comes with smart Controlled Release Technology (CRT). This ensures the active ingredient remains protected inside a polymer coating and is released gradually in the rice ecosystem.
This slow-release mechanism reduces wastage, minimizes environmental impact, and ensures the fungicide remains effective for a longer period—providing consistent and reliable protection throughout critical growth stages.
Key Features & Unique Technology
1. Controlled Release Technology
The hallmark of Seltima is its advanced encapsulation system. The active ingredient is slowly released into the water, allowing targeted disease control while avoiding phytotoxicity in rice plants.
2. High Selectivity and Crop Safety
Unlike some systemic fungicides that may harm tender rice leaves, Seltima is extremely gentle on the crop. It enhances physiological processes like photosynthesis and root development.
3. Broad-Spectrum Protection
It effectively tackles multiple fungal pathogens commonly seen in paddy fields, including:
- Sheath blight (Rhizoctonia solani)
- Brown leaf spot
- Dirty panicle disease
- Blast (leaf & neck)
4. Improved Productivity
Farmers using Seltima often see:
- Increased number of tillers
- Stronger root systems
- Enhanced grain filling
- Better uniformity in panicles
Benefits of Using Seltima Fungicide
Long-Lasting Protection
CRT ensures slow release of the active ingredient, providing extended disease protection compared to conventional fungicides.
Reduced Risk of Resistance
Thanks to its controlled availability and unique formulation, Seltima minimizes fungal exposure peaks that often lead to resistance buildup.
Better Crop Vigor
Pyraclostrobin is known to improve physiological efficiency. This results in greener foliage, improved nutrient uptake, and enhanced stress tolerance.
Quality Yield Enhancement
Seltima significantly improves:
- Grain shine
- Grain weight
- Percentage of marketable grains
- Overall yield
Safer for the Environment
The controlled release minimizes unnecessary runoff into water bodies — a big advantage over traditional fungicides used in flooded rice fields.
How Seltima Fungicide Works
Once applied, Seltima’s polymer-coated granules settle in the water and start releasing Pyraclostrobin at a controlled rate. The fungicide stays concentrated around the plant root zone and lower stem, exactly where many key rice diseases originate.
This localized action ensures:
- Strong preventive action
- Robust anti-sporulation activity
- Reduced disease spread
Ultimately, it helps keep plants healthier during the most critical growth phases.
Recommended Crops & Target Diseases Of Seltima Fungicide
Primary Crop: Rice (Paddy)
Major Diseases Controlled:
- Sheath blight
- Blast (leaf & neck)
- Dirty panicle disease
- Brown leaf spot
Dosage & Application Method
For best results, follow these recommended guidelines:
Dose:
300–400 ml per acre (or as per local agricultural recommendations)
Application Timing:
- First spray between 35–45 days after transplanting (DAT)
- For high infestation areas, a second application may be required after 15–20 days
Application Method:
- Mix the recommended dose in sufficient water (usually 150–200 L per acre)
- Ensure uniform leaf and stem coverage
- Apply during calm weather and avoid spraying before heavy rain
Pro tip: Seltima performs best when applied preventively or at the very early onset of disease symptoms.
Also Read: Priaxor Fungicide: A Complete Guide for Healthier, High-Yield Crops
Compatibility & Precautions
Compatibility
- Compatible with most commonly used insecticides and fungicides
- Avoid mixing with highly acidic or alkaline solutions
Precautions
- Store away from moisture
- Wear protective gear during application
- Do not exceed recommended dosage
- Follow a fungicide rotation plan to avoid resistance
Alternate Products to Seltima Fungicide
If Seltima is not available, consider the following alternatives:
- Opera Fungicide (BASF) – Pyraclostrobin + Epoxiconazole
- Nativo (Bayer) – Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin
- Amistar Top (Syngenta) – Azoxystrobin + Difenoconazole
- Folicur (Bayer) – Tebuconazole
These products also offer strong protection against rice fungal diseases.
Also Read: Simodis Insecticide: A Broad-Spectrum Insecticide Powered by PLINAZOLIN® Technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Seltima safe for rice seedlings?
Yes. Its controlled-release technology ensures crop safety even in sensitive plant stages.
2. Can Seltima be mixed with fertilizers?
It is best applied alone or mixed only with compatible fungicides. Avoid mixing with strong fertilizers in the same tank.
3. Does Seltima improve yield quality?
Absolutely. Many farmers report higher grain weight, more filled grains, and improved shine.
4. When is the best time to spray Seltima?
The ideal timing is between 35–45 DAT, especially when conditions favor sheath blight and blast.
Final Opinion
Seltima Fungicide is a high-performance, technologically advanced fungicide that provides long-lasting protection and remarkable yield benefits for rice farmers. Its unique Controlled Release Technology sets it apart from regular formulations, ensuring both effective disease control and enhanced crop health. For farmers aiming for consistent yield, stronger plants, and superior grain quality, Seltima is undoubtedly one of the best choices available today.
Also Read: About Seltima Fungicide on the BASF Site
