Its targeted action, rapid degradation, and low residue make it a preferred option in integrated pest management (IPM) programs across India and other major agricultural zones. But what exactly is Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG used for? This article explores its uses, technical background, practical benefits, and why it stands out as a tool for sustainable pest control.
Whether you're a grower, agronomist, or simply curious about crop inputs, this guide offers a detailed, field-tested understanding of its role in agriculture.
What Is Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG?
Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG is a water-soluble granule formulation derived from the naturally occurring fermentation product of Streptomyces avermitilis. Though semi-synthetic, its origin is microbial and belongs to the avermectin family of insecticides.
It acts as a nerve disruptor in insects, explicitly targeting glutamate-gated chloride channels. When ingested by larvae, it causes rapid feeding cessation, paralysis, and eventual death. The SG (Soluble Granule) formulation is designed for easy mixing, better dispersion, and minimal sprayer clogging.
Farmers commonly use branded options like Emoctan - Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG to treat crops facing caterpillar, borer, and leaf folder infestations. These pests often hide within the plant tissue, making surface-level control ineffective.
Main Uses of Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG in Agriculture
1. Controlling Lepidopteran Larvae in Vegetables and Pulses
Emamectin is highly effective against chewing pests such as:
Helicoverpa armigera (fruit borer)
Spodoptera litura (leaf-eating caterpillar)
Earias vittella (okra shoot and fruit borer)
Plutella xylostella (diamondback moth)
These pests cause significant losses in crops like:
Chilli
Okra
Cabbage
Pigeon pea
Tomato
In chilli, for example, Emamectin helps reduce fruit borer entry by up to 85% when applied during early larval stages. Its translaminar activity ensures it penetrates the leaf surface and controls larvae hiding underneath.
2. Minimising Borer Damage in Commercial Crops
Bollworms in cotton and shoot borers in brinjal can devastate yields. Emamectin offers a quick response solution when pest thresholds are crossed.
In cotton, it controls early-stage bollworms without affecting predatory beetles.
In brinjal, it helps avoid shoot wilting caused by internal boring.
Its effectiveness remains high even at low concentrations, which helps reduce residue and application costs.
How Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG Works
To understand how Emamectin functions:
After ingestion, the molecule binds to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the insect’s nervous system.
This causes uncontrolled chloride flow, leading to neuromuscular dysfunction.
Within 24 hours, larvae stop feeding. Paralysis and death follow in 2–3 days.
Because this channel is largely absent in mammals and most beneficial insects, Emamectin’s toxicity is highly selective. When applied responsibly, it does not affect bees, predators, or parasitoids.
Advantages of translaminar movement:
Reaches larvae hiding inside curled leaves
Effective even after minor rain due to strong leaf adherence
Reduces the need for multiple reapplications
Use Scenarios and Target Crops
In India, Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG is registered for use in multiple crops. Here’s a list of its most common applications:
Crop | Target Pest | Timing of Application |
Chilli | Fruit borer | At flowering and early fruiting stage |
Okra | Shoot and fruit borer | After 30 days of sowing |
Cotton | Bollworm complex | Based on pheromone trap activity |
Pigeon Pea | Pod borer | Pod development stage |
Brinjal | Shoot borer | Vegetative and early flowering |
Cabbage | Diamondback moth | Leaf growth and head formation stages |
Tomato | Fruit borer | Bud initiation to fruit formation |
Recommended dosage: 10–12g per 15 litres of water
Spray interval: Every 10–12 days during pest outbreaks
Constantly rotate with other mode-of-action groups to avoid resistance. Emamectin belongs to IRAC Group 6.
Benefits Beyond Pest Control
Low mammalian toxicity: Safer for handlers when used with PPE
Short pre-harvest interval: 3–5 days depending on crop
High potency at low dose: Less environmental load
No systemic movement: Doesn’t affect fruit or edible parts
Faster crop recovery: Improved leaf turgidity within 48 hours
Its utility in IPM setups suits farmers who want effective control with minimum ecological disruption.
“Some inputs don’t just kill pests—they preserve balance. Ivermectin is a molecule that does the job without rewriting the field’s biology.”
Practical Tips for Effective Use
Mix thoroughly: Use a clean bucket or tank and stir to dissolve completely.
Spray during low sun: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid drift.
Check for larval stage: Best results are seen when applied at early larval stages.
Avoid tank mixing with alkaline substances: May reduce efficacy.
Use fine mist nozzle: Ensures translaminar penetration and full leaf coverage.
Environmental Profile and Safety
Several studies from FAO and the Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC) support the selective nature of Emamectin.
Half-life in soil: 3–6 days
Low leaching potential
Non-persistent in water
Safe for most beneficial insects when used correctly
Minimal impact on natural pollinators if spraying is timed properly
Its fast degradation profile means a lower risk of residue buildup and better compatibility with export standards.
Case Study: Emamectin in a Chilli Field
A smallholder farmer in Karnataka used Emamectin after a 40% fruit drop due to borers in early January. He sprayed 10 g/15 L twice in a 12-day window.
Larval activity reduced by 85%
Visible crop recovery in 3 days
Marketable yield increased by 22% over untreated plot
Bee activity returned 48 hours post-application
The farmer reported fewer spray rounds overall and could reintroduce neem sprays after pest suppression.
FAQs
Q1: Is Emamectin safe for organic farming?
No. Emamectin is not certified for organic systems. It is, however, used in transitional or IPM farms with strict documentation.
Q2: Can I use Emamectin during flowering?
It’s best to avoid spraying during peak pollination. Apply early morning or late evening to protect pollinators.
Q3: Does it kill sucking pests like whiteflies or aphids?
No. Emamectin is specific to chewing larvae. Use appropriate insecticides or biocontrols for sap-feeding pests.
Q4: Can it be combined with neem or Bt?
Yes, Bt and neem can be used in rotation but not mixed in the same tank. Always perform a jar test for compatibility.
Q5: What is the re-entry interval after spraying?
Generally, re-entry is safe after 24 hours with proper ventilation and dry leaf surfaces.
What’s Next in Targeted Pest Management?
As agriculture leans toward precision and sustainability, tools like Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG show that selectivity, dosage, and timing can deliver powerful results without harming the ecosystem. The future lies in combining such molecules with digital pest monitoring, predictive spray models, and natural biocontrols.
By using inputs like Emamectin not as a default but as a timed intervention, farmers can maintain balance while keeping productivity on track. It’s not about choosing synthetic over natural—it’s about choosing what works responsibly when it matters most.
