By Shawn P. Conley
Soybean and Wheat Extension Specialist
Spray drift is the movement of herbicides and other crop inputs away from intended target sites through the air. Several factors play a role in reducing spray drift, but farmers should pay particular attention to these four:
1.Nozzle Selection- The nozzle’s intended use determines the type of nozzle needed.
• Examine current and future application requirements for your fields
• Prepare several sets of nozzles for different application needs
• Consult herbicide labels and nozzle catalogs to help calibrate
sprayer systems for individual field needs.
2.Drip Size- When boom or nozzle pressure is increased, a higher percentage
of droplets are small. The smaller the droplet, the greater the chances of off-target drift
3.Application Speeds- Maintain reasonable speed. Higher speeds often result
in smaller droplets, which are more likely to remain suspended in the air and can
move long distances.
4.Additional Options- Carefully select drift-reduction nozzles and additives
to control drift.