Source: Erdal Ozkan
Applying pesticides requires a high level of skill and knowledge. Over the years, the increasing size and complexity of sprayers have necessitated even more attention to efficiency, efficacy, and safety when spraying pesticides. Although each crop requires a slightly different approach to pesticide application, some general principles apply to nearly all spraying situations. Here are my top 10 recommendations (not in any particular order) that will make spraying efficient and effective, resulting in a higher level of biological efficacy expected from pesticides applied:
- Select the best nozzle type and size for the job.
- Carefully read and follow the specific recommendations provided in sprayer operators’ manuals and on the labels of applied pesticides.
- Keep spray drift in mind when spraying.
- Maximize pesticide deposition and coverage on the target.
- Slow down when spraying.
- Calibrate the sprayer.
- Check for uniformity of application.
- Understand how to calculate the amount of chemical product to mix in the tank.
- Adopt advancements in spray technology.
- Consider using a sprayer with an air-assisted boom.