Spray Application Workshop

The North Down, Coleraine and Banbridge Cereal Challenge groups recently attended a workshop delivered by Professor Paul Miller of The Arable Group (TAG). The workshop held at Greenmount Campus focused on sprayer technology with the emphasis on reducing drift and improving efficiency in both work rates and pesticide application.

To optimise cereal crop yields the timely and correct applications of pesticides is essential.  Professor Millar highlighted that by utilising existing technology such as suitable nozzles, pesticides can be applied more efficiently leading to higher yields, lower chemical use and a reduction in environmental impact.  

Growers had the opportunity to learn how different nozzles performed using Greenmount’s demonstration sprayer. Of particular interest was Professor Millar recommendation to use alternate front and rear pointing nozzles which produce more effective spray pattern when applying pre –emergent herbicides.

The workshop was part of the Cereals Challenge which provides growers with an opportunity to improve their expertise in all aspects of cereal production.

If you wish to join the Cereal Challenge please contact you local Crops Development advisor or call (028) 9442 6783.

Professor Millar (Right) highlights the different spray patterns to participating growers