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4 Ways to Minimize Spray Drift

Reference: Farmers Business Network

It’s important to ensure your chem applications remain on target when spraying in order to increase efficacy and decrease drift to other farmers’ nearby fields. Luckily, there are a few strategies you can employ to minimize spray drift, improve crop yield, and keep your neighboring farmers happy.

1. Follow Label Instructions
It is critical to read and adhere to label instructions for all chemicals you plan to spray. If you're working with a custom applicator, confirm they are fully trained and accredited to ensure safety compliance.

2. Monitor Weather Conditions
Monitor weather forecasts before, during, and after spraying to ensure proper conditions for chemical spray application.

High temperatures can cause the spray to evaporate too quickly, while low temperatures can cause the spray to dry more slowly, leading to reduced efficacy.

High humidity levels can lead spray droplets to absorb moisture from the air, which can cause them to enlarge and grow heavier, thus reducing coverage and increasing drift. Conversely, low humidity levels make spray droplets evaporate too quickly, reducing the amount of active ingredient that successfully reaches the crop target.

Finally, high winds can cause spray droplets to drift away from the target area, leading to reduced coverage and increased risk of off-target damage, while low winds can cause the spray to fall short of the target area, leading to reduced efficacy.

Weather conditions should be consistent to ensure maximum efficacy; avoiding extreme winds, temperatures, or humidity levels can reduce drift and improve application efficacy.

3. Use the Right Spray Nozzles

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