Spray application is one of the most important activities regularly done in any crop operation. It can also be one of the most expensive and time-consuming. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a multi-step process that helps sprayer operators make informed choices about when and what to spray. But, the decision to spray is not the end […]
Most pesticides are either pre-formulated with the required adjuvants, or the label specifies their addition. However, compelling claims by manufacturers create interest in tank mixing additional adjuvants to improve some aspect of pesticide performance. In a previous article we advised caution when using adjuvants in airblast sprayers (see here). Specifically, we stated that unless an adjuvant has been tested with airblast equipment, […]
Read More… from Evaluating an Anti-Drift Adjuvant in an Airblast Sprayer
Sprayer operators recognize the importance of matching their sprayer settings to the crop to optimize efficacy. For example, spraying a protective fungicide in field tomato should require a different approach from spraying a locally systemic insecticide in staked peppers. Knowing this, many operators make ad hoc changes and then wait to “see if it worked”. […]
Read More… from How to Assess Spray Coverage in Vegetable Crops
Overview This article expands on an earlier article: here. Before we dive into the details, let’s start with a quick video summary filmed by Real Agriculture at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show in September, 2016. When the pressure drops and the nozzles begin to sputter, the sprayer is considered empty. However, it can still retain a lot […]
Read More… from Continuous Rinsing should be considered in North America
In August, 2016, we were contacted by a cut-flower grower specializing in Dahlias. There are photos in this article, but they don’t do justice to this beautiful perennial flower. Imagine a chrysanthemum crossed with a zinnia: lots of tight petals in the bloom. Unfortunately, they’re a perfect place for insects to hide. Those that buy […]