How is spray drift reduced?

Operators using field crop sprayers with traditional nozzle designs reduce spray drift by using the larger size nozzles, lowering the spray pressure, spraying at slower speeds and making sure the boom is at the minimum height advised. The operator may also decide to delay or not to spray the last three swaths of a field since most spray drift losses result from the last three sprayed swaths

Operators using field crop sprayers can reduce drift more effectively with newer alternative nozzle designs such as those that induce air and produce coarser  sprays which are less likely to drift. Some sprayers use air assistance whilst others have shrouds that cover the entire boom. Use of additives to reduce spray drift has also been popular; in general, these products increase the liquid viscosity to coarsen the drop sizes produced.

Air blast [mist blowers] sprayers reduce drift by adjusting air volumes and speeds to ensure crop canopy penetration yet without blowing the spray through the trees, The spray drop laden air is directed only where needed, by using sensor devices that detect where trees are missing.

Some [tunnel] sprayers are enclosed and thus retain the spray within. These can be used to treat smaller trees and bushes.

Knapsack sprayer users can use drift reducing nozzles shields and ensure the correct nozzle height.

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