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OPERATION AND ADJUSTMENTS
SPRAY APPLICATION TECHNOLOGY
A successful spray application does not depend only on a good sprayer or correct use
of the chemicals but also on factors to be determined in the field under specialized orientation.
Among these factors, some concepts should be part of a criterion of evaluation so
that positive results may be attained within the pest control program.
- Ideal time
- Application rate
- Safety
- Good coverage
IDEAL TIME
The ideal time for spraying should be chosen according to the chemical product characteristics,
as well as to the field conditions:
- Infestation level of pests, diseases and weeds;
- Infection level of diseases;
- Growing stage of weeds;
- Weather conditions.
SAFETY
When spraying your crops, you must make sure there will be no risk to people,
animals and environment. Avoid spraying at hotter times, with humidity below 55% or under
windy conditions.
Do not allow the operator to handle chemicals and spraying machinery
without the proper individual protective clothing.
CORRECT APPLICATION RATE
Any type of application requires that the rate be maintained during the whole spraying
work. This will be possible when you have a good sprayer properly calibrated.
This calibration can be obtained through practical methods or formulas. Please refer to the
section
OPERATION AND ADJUSTMENTS - CALIBRATING THE SPRAYER
.
GOOD COVERAGE
You have a good coverage when the whole target is sprayed with uniform distribution, with
no risk to the environment and with good results in the pest control.
The application rate does not have influence on the treatment results. Therefore good
coverages can be attained even with different rates, which may vary according to operational
and regional factors.
IMPORTANT!
READ CAREFULLY AND FOLLOW STRICTLY THE INSTRUCTIONS ON THE
CHEMICALS MANUFACTURER'S LABEL.
ALWAYS FOLLOW DIRECTIONS OF A TECHNICIAN WHEN HANDLING AND
APPLYING CHEMICALS.
ALWAYS MAKE SURE THE SPRAYER IS IN GOOD OPERATIONAL CONDITIONS
BEFORE STARTING THE SPRAYING JOB AND EMPLOY A WELL TRAINED OPERATOR.