No matter how sophisticated current crop production systems are, no fertilizer can completely solve all your pest problems. Thankfully, there are available pesticide sprays in the market that can give your plants at least 95 percent protection, and although not perfect, they can improve your crops’ growth and safety.
These products, however, do not come cheap. If you want to maximize your pesticide spray investment, here are some tips you should keep in mind:
#1: Make sure that your Spray Equipment is clean and working properly
Forgetting to check the status and functionality of your spray equipment can lead to more expenses later. Spray nozzles are bound to clog or wear out after frequent usage, so you must conduct regular cleaning and inspection of your spray equipment before and after using them.
Failing spray equipment can lead to an uneven distribution of pesticides. Dirt found in the spray nozzle can also affect their quality.
Here are some maintenance tips that can help you:
- Place filters or strainers on the nozzle of your sprayer to prevent clog buildup.
- When cleaning the spraying equipment, make sure to use special cleaning agents and place all of its parts under running water for thorough cleaning.
- If a clog is already present, clean it lightly using a brush. If brushing can no longer fix the problem, consider replacing the nozzle.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s manufacturer’s manual to ensure that you are taking care of your equipment well.
#2: Find the right Spraying Speed for your Crops
How slow or how fast you spray can affect how well your pesticide works. For example, using a tractor means that you have a faster spraying speed. That also requires you to spray in larger volumes of pesticides so that all the plants will receive adequate treatment. Use tools, such as surveyors tape, to monitor the air movement in your field and ensure that all plants get the right amount of pesticide they need to survive.
If you manually do the spraying, you can proceed with using the average amount required. However, this method is prone to over spraying, so be attentive to how much pesticide you use and apply.
#3: Invest in the Right Nozzle
Nozzles come in different sizes, which is one of the major factors that affect the effectiveness of your pesticide. Apart from the size, the pressure you apply to these nozzles can also play a role.
If you want to budget your pesticide usage well, you must consider these facctors in your decision. If you are unsure what size or pressure to use, the best way to know is by conducting a few trials.
#4: Know how much Pesticide you need
The amount of pesticide you use may vary depending on your plants’ condition. A pest outbreak may require you to use more pesticide than usual. The range also changes depending on your target pest or what type of crop you want to protect.
The condition of your plants also determines the amount of pesticide they need. The worst situation that can happen is them becoming too stressed or if the pests become resistant to the product you use. Avoid applying pesticides in these situations and try to look for a better replacement.
Conclusion
The best way to ensure efficient usage of pesticides is to study your farming situation well. Start by reading your pesticide product label, learning the needs of your plants, and adjusting as needed. Paying attention to your equipment and pesticide distribution can also make a big difference.
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