Sprayer

A sprayer’s function is to deliver a measured, evenly distributed volume of a liquid product to a target area. It is the delivery mechanism for chemical and some biological crop-protection strategies, working in support of — not instead of — scouting, correct product selection, and application timing.

1. Water and product are combined in a tank and mixed to form the spray solution
2. A pump draws the mixture and delivers it under pressure to the boom or nozzles
3. Nozzles atomise the liquid into droplets of a size suited to the product and target
4. The boom or nozzle arrangement distributes droplets evenly across the working width
5. Controllers regulate flow rate relative to travel speed to maintain a consistent application rate

Sprayers are used throughout the growing season for pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicide applications, insecticide treatments against pests, and fungicide programs against foliar and other diseases, as well as for some foliar nutrient applications. Timely, well-targeted spraying can improve efficacy and reduce the total amount of product needed.

Trailed/mounted boom sprayer

Towed or tractor-mounted, with a folding boom for field-scale application

Self-propelled sprayer

A dedicated, high-clearance machine used for larger operations and taller crops

Air-blast/orchard sprayer

Uses an air stream to carry droplets into tree or vine canopies

Backpack/handheld sprayer

Small-scale equipment for spot treatment or smallholder use

Nozzle type, spray pressure, droplet size, boom height, and weather conditions such as wind all affect how well a spray reaches its target and how much drifts away from it. Calibration — checking that the actual application rate matches the intended rate — is a routine part of safe, effective spraying.