The grape production season is underway, and Southeast producers need to ensure their vineyard sprayers are properly calibrated, according to Sarah Lowder, University of Georgia (UGA) viticulture Extension specialist.
She noted in the UGA Extension Viticulture Blog that proper calibration ensures growers are applying the right amount of product to their vines, maximizing effectiveness, minimizing waste and protecting the crop and environment.
“Over-or-under-application can cost you, either in lost yield or wasted materials (or both),” Lowder wrote in the blog. “Calibration helps ensure every drop goes exactly where it’s needed.”
There are multiple items to check.
- Nozzles: Clean and inspect for wear or clogs. Replace if needed.
- Pressure: Confirm the system maintains consistent pressure across all nozzles.
- Speed and flow rate: Match sprayer speed with nozzle output for uniform coverage.
- Coverage: Test spray with water and assess canopy coverage. Adjust as necessary.
“This goes for any tool that you use to apply pesticides to your vines, though the methods may vary depending on what type of sprayer you are using,” Lowder added.