Technical Information: Sprayer Calibration
Most Floratine products are formulated for application by a spray rig, and proper sprayer calibration ensures correct application.
Foliar products are designed for uptake through the foliage. For maximum foliar uptake, the total spray volume should be no greater than one gallon per one thousand square feet (40 GPA or 200 l/ha).
For soil-applied products, the total spray volume is not as critical. Soil applications can be immediately watered in with light irrigation.
Basics of Sprayer Calibration:
There are four variables that effect sprayer calibration:
- Speed
For foliar spraying, the speed should be in the range of 2 to 3 mph (3 to 4 kph) - Pressure
The pressure should be set to between 25 and 35 psi - Flow Rate
The selected nozzle governs the flow rate. The recommended nozzle is a flat fan-type nozzle with a nominal diameter of .2 or .3 - Width of Spray Pattern
Proper width for your application ensures maximum coverage
There are three main goals for foliar sprays:
- Uniformly cover the surface of the turf
- Entirely coat the surface of the leaves, from front to back
- Prevent spray from running off the leaves and into the soil
For uniform coverage, make sure the spray boom is set at the proper height for the nozzles used, and check that nozzles are not worn or plugged.
Foliar uptake is enhanced when the spray is used in fine droplets, like the mist produced when spraying with 0.2 or 0.3 nozzles at 25 to 35 psi. It may be necessary to use a spreader surfactant at higher water levels.
Avoid Drift and Evaporation
Use of covered sprayers or an anti-drift surfactant is recommended to reduce the possibility of wind drift.
Air induction nozzles can also be used to counteract drift. These types of nozzles create large, hollow droplets that resist drift but break up upon contact with the leaf.
