Spray deposition assessment using different application techniques in artificial orchard trees

Seven orchard spray application techniques were compared in terms of within-tree deposition quality and off-target losses to the ground and behind the target trees. The studied spray techniques included different sprayer types, fan speeds and air deflector settings. An artificial pear canopy was realized for this purpose. Filter papers and a multiple tracer methodology were used to evaluate deposition. All measurements were conducted indoor and will be used as an input and to validate a CFD orchard spray model. Results showed that spray application technique has an effect on spray deposition. Sprayer design caused major differences in spray distribution and off-target losses. A sprayer with individual spouts gave the highest deposits on the tree (0.15 L), followed by an axial sprayer (0.10-0.12 L). Changing settings on the axial sprayer only caused minor differences, although the high fan gear performed significantly better than the low gear. Lowest tree depositions were found for a cross-flow sprayer (0.08-0.09 L). A significant portion of the spray liquid was lost to the ground and directly behind the trees with all spray techniques. The axial fan sprayer and the sprayer with individual spouts caused higher ground deposits than the cross-flow sprayer. The cross-flow sprayer on the other hand gave higher losses behind the trees, especially when a high fan speed was applied. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.