Potato Review

www.potatoreview.com POTATO REVIEW MARCH/APRIL 2022 31 SPRAYING Furthermore, the depth of the bed or ridge means a boom height set at 50cm from the bed top, may be 80 – 100cm in the furrow bottom – which would affect the spray pattern. Potato seedbeds are also particularly prone to clods, if seasonal soil conditions are difficult. The suggested solution is primarily to use 90% drift reduction technology, to deliver more consistent coverage on both sides of the ridge and minimise risk of drift, said Harry. “The use of 200 l/ha water volume delivers more consistent coverage, while sprayer speed at less than 12 km/hr typically reduces operating pressure to around 2.5 bar for the water volume – which helps to produce a greater proportion of larger droplets that are less drifty,” he added. Some nozzle designs give greater flexibility in maintaining spray pattern with variable height above the target, to achieve a more even coverage at the top and bottom of the ridge. Also, using an angled nozzle, pointing forward and backwards along the spray boom, gives better all-round coverage of any soil clods and overcomes shading associated with forward movement of the sprayer. TOP TIPS FOR SPRAYER HYGIENE • Always wash out the sprayer thoroughly. • Dry residues are harder to remove from a sprayer, so wash out on the same day as spraying • If you have an in-tank rising system, make use of it, but remember it is not a substitute for a thorough clean out. • Use a specific spray tank cleaner, such as All Clear® Extra, for a thorough clean. • Always use high quality pesticides, specifically formulated for easy mixing and washout. “Don’t forget to fill the sprayer with half the required water volume and start agitation. You’ll then need to ensure each pesticide added is fully dispersed.” Adam Espir, Commercial Technical Manager, FMC Some nozzle designs give greater flexibility in maintaining spray pattern with variable height above the target, Harry states. The depth of the bed or ridge means a boom height set at 50cm from the bed top, may be 80 – 100cm in the furrow bottom – which would affect the spray pattern. Photo: Blackthorn Arable Dry residues are harder to remove from a sprayer, so wash out on the same day as spraying. Photo: Blackthorn Arable