Introduction of Bayer Atlantis Herbicide
Bayer Atlantis is a premium post-emergence herbicide developed for wheat. It’s engineered to remove competitive grass and many broadleaf weeds (notably Phalaris minor and other grass species) that reduce yield, while being safe to the wheat crop when applied correctly.
Table of Contents
Active ingredient
Atlantis is a sulfonyl-urea family herbicide whose key active ingredients are mesosulfuron-methyl and iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium (often supplied in WG/OD formulations). These act as ALS (acetolactate synthase) inhibitors — systemic herbicides that are absorbed by leaves and move within the plant to stop growth.
Dose per acre (practical recommendation)
Label and distributor guidance commonly used in wheat cultivation (regional labels vary) recommend about 160 g of Atlantis formulation per acre, mixed into 160–200 L of spray water (apply as a uniform foliar spray). Always check the specific product label or local regulatory label for the exact formulation and the legal dose in your country — labels give the definitive, legally binding instructions.
Also Read: Bayer Adora Herbicide: A Complete Guide for Effective Weed Management
When and how to apply
- Timing: Apply post-emergence when the majority of grassy weeds are at early growth stages (before advanced tillering of the weeds). Early application gives the best control.
- Water volume & spray: Use adequate water (commonly 160–200 L/acre in recommendations cited) to achieve even coverage. Good spray coverage is crucial for systemic products.
- Compatibility: Atlantis is often tank-mixed with suitable broadleaf herbicides or safeners where label allows; follow compatibility charts and label directions. Never tank mix unless the product label permits it.
Benefits for wheat farmers
Excellent grass weed control (including tough Phalaris minor): Atlantis is particularly effective against a range of grass weeds that compete strongly with wheat. Numerous reports and Bayer documentation highlight its strong performance on Phalaris and other grasses.
Crop safety: Formulations include safeners or are designed for selectivity so normal-rate applications are safe on wheat when label directions are followed.
Systemic action and lasting control: Being an ALS inhibitor, it translocates within the weed, reducing regrowth and providing good, lasting control if used correctly.
Resistance management when used properly: Atlantis can be part of an integrated program (rotating modes of action and mixing appropriately) to manage herbicide resistance — but it should not be relied on as the sole ALS herbicide repeatedly. Labels emphasize rotation and integrated weed management.
Also Read: Bayer Alion Plus Herbicide — a practical guide for growers
Practical tips & cautions
- Always read the label for application windows, droplet size, buffer zones, re-entry intervals, and personal protective equipment. Labels and SDS contain safety and environmental guidance.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose and limit the number of treatments per crop as specified. Overuse risks crop injury and accelerates resistance.
- Avoid spraying in frost or when rain is imminent. Weather conditions affect uptake and efficacy.
Alternatives / complementary products
If you need alternatives or complements for broader weed spectra or resistance management, consider herbicides with different modes of action (ask your local agronomist or dealer). Products such as certain ACCase or other herbicide families are sometimes used in rotation or mixtures where label and local recommendations allow. Always follow local guidance and resistance-management advice.
Also Read: Bayer Insecticide: Revolutionising Crop Protection for Sustainable Farming.
FAQ
Q: Can I use Atlantis on other crops?
A: Atlantis is formulated and labelled primarily for wheat; do not use on other crops unless the product label explicitly lists them.
Q: How long until weeds die after spraying?
A: Visible effects may take 7–21 days depending on weed species and weather; complete control may take longer for larger or stressed weeds.
Q: Can it control mature Phalaris?
A: Atlantis is effective even on fairly advanced Phalaris compared to older products, but earlier application gives better, more consistent control.
Final opinion
Bayer Atlantis is a highly useful, modern post-emergence herbicide for wheat that gives strong control of grass weeds (including Phalaris minor) while being safe to the crop when used exactly as labelled. Its systemic ALS-inhibitor chemistry makes it effective and long-lasting, but that same chemistry means farmers must practice rotation and integrated weed management to avoid resistance. For best results, follow the local label, use the recommended ~160 g/acre in 160–200 L water guidance where applicable, and consult your local Bayer representative or agronomist for region-specific instructions.
Also Read: About Atlantis Herbicide on the BAYER Site
