There’s a temptation to think that using more water in the spray tank is a better way of getting crops “wet” and increasing spread. But that’s a misconception. And one which could negatively impact spray programmes’ efficacy, and yields.
Du-Wett® super spreader making every dollar go further too
There’s a temptation to think that using more water in the spray tank is a better way of getting crops “wet” and increasing spread. But, UPL NZ Ltd.’s Adjuvant Product Manager David Lingan says that’s a misconception. And one which could negatively impact spray programmes’ efficacy, and yields.
David explains the heart of the problem is the high surface tension of water. “There’s a tendency for sprays to ‘bead-up’. You’ve probably seen it for yourself. That doesn’t give you the spread or coverage needed for optimal spray performance.”
He says there is a solution.
Changing your game with spreaders
“Adding a spreader will definitely enhance spray performance and deliver savings. It makes every droplet of active work harder.” Spreaders are adjuvants, which reduce the surface tension. Spray droplets then form a thinner, more effective film over the surface of leaves.
“They don’t “bead-up the same,” David explains. “That gets the active everywhere it actually matters.”
“Crop protection products can’t always cram everything in,” David explains. “That’s where spreaders come in. They provide attributes the actives don’t have.”
Proven time and again - Better coverage and deposition with Du-Wett
Super spreader Du-Wett from UPL is a non-ionic organosilicone surfactant blend developed to give better coverage and foliage deposition of fungicides, insecticides, plant growth regulators, and nutrients.
It has proven excellent crop safety and is compatible with most crop protection inputs, which has been extensively tested. Du-Wett is one adjuvant that has a lot of R&D spent on it, adds David.
David says the adjuvant has a demonstrated ability to deliver disease and insect control using reduced water volumes in cereals, brassicas, and grass seed crops. “Du-Wett also provides at least 5 to 10 times the spread and coverage of the other non-ionic adjuvants out there.”
While used primarily with insecticides in brassicas, fungicides in pastures, and insecticides in maize, Du-Wett can also benefit commercial growers. “Almost anywhere sprays are used, and coverage is critical, Du-Wett ads value.”
David says with the cost of crop protection products, and other inputs increasing at a rate we haven’t experienced in many years, anything that reduces waste and increases yield is worth considering.
He says there’s also been a sea-change in thinking around spraying. “Not that long ago, water was considered “free”. And there was an attitude that using more water was always better – that’s definitely being challenged. Optimising water use is now something farmers and growers are factoring into their systems, to improve efficiency, and ROI.
“Previously, when we went out to spray, we often overlooked that one very important component in the tank: Water. Yet, by volume, it is almost 90% of what’s in the tank!”
Reduced water volume with Du-Wett
Using Du-Wett, with a reduced water application volume, David says users will see a benefit in getting the spraying job done quicker. “There’s less filling time and getting around the blocks or farm are more efficient. It means there can be gains in time and efficiency and significant savings in fuel costs and the cost of labour – both major pain points for farmers and growers. Plus, you have a better outcome.”
The recommended waters rates for cereals, maize, forage brassicas and grass seed crops using Du-Wett are 50-250 L for ground sprayers and 50-100 L for aerial spraying.
He says Du-Wett also has a part to play in reducing waste and protecting the environment. “It ensures the spray gets to, on and in the target crop. And makes sure it stays there.
“The more uniform coverage combined with up to 20% less spray drift means there’s less waste, and reduced risk of spray reaching non-target crops, or other nearby areas, and waterways. That’s not just a matter of good land stewardship, it’s also part of being a good neighbour and responsible member of a rural community.”
David says some crops are definitely harder to wet than others. Among the crops considered hard to wet are; clover and grass seed crops, plantain, cereals, brassicas, and process crops including peas and carrots along with onions and outdoor tomatoes. Fodder beet and broad beans are close behind.
He says for cereals, Du-Wett is especially helpful in providing effective coverage of the yield-critical flag leaf in cereals. Like onions (a notoriously difficult to wet crop) the upright leaves can otherwise present a real challenge for sprays.
“Many of the crops that would benefit from the addition of Du-Wett in spray programmes are high value. Some can also come under high pressure from insects and disease.
“Corn ear worm, army worm and other insects can cause severe damage in maize. While in brassicas, aphids, cabbage butterflies and diamond back moths are among the yield robbers.”
NEW - Du-Wett Organic
David says the introduction of Du-Wett Organic last season also saw significant interest and up-take by growers. This year the product is available in commercial volumes. “Du-Wett Organic fills a gap in the market. Consumers are increasingly demanding organic produce and growers need to find ways to produce in line with their certification and values, but also that protect their bottom line and long-term viability.”
“It's an efficacious and environmentally friendly alternative to high water volume spraying practices.”
Industry innovators, sustainable solutions provider, UPL NZ know the category well. Previously Elliott Chemicals Limited, they began work on adjuvants in this country more than two decades ago. Today, they are industry leaders with a portfolio of 22 proven adjuvant products.
