Enhancing efficacy of spray strategies

The use of adjuvants and other spray strategies to increase yield while reducing input costs is the topic for discussion at the May Pollinator: “Innovation in yield protection and enhancement.”

In theory, varying the rate of fertiliser and crop protection application according to need will cut input costs while maintaining yield. In practice although technologies do exist to support this there is still a need for improved technology to help the decision-making and to allow more intelligent control over the spray application.

There are also encouraging developments in the use of adjuvants to enhance spray performance. These are additives that can increase the effectiveness of spraying – this can include agents to increase penetration, surfactants to increase coverage, spray modifiers to change the physical properties of the spray and suspension agents to maintain even distribution of active ingredients.

To create an active discussion of the issues facing farmers in the field, the recent developments in spray performance, and the use of adjuvants, and how to move beyond the next chemical ingredient, we have invited three leading experts to give their perspectives.

• Dr Clare Butler Ellis, head of Silsoe Spray Applications, Niab, will outline the recent developments in spray technologies that enhance flow and control of application.
• Alan East, Technical Manager for Interagro, will be discussing the role of adjuvants and how they can optimise spray performance. Interagro operates in 16 European countries and its products are tested in extreme conditions with niche and high value crops.
• Dr Leslie May, Head of Discovery Biology at Syngenta will give his insights into how to move beyond the next new chemical active.

This is sure to create significant food for thought and the meeting will use a speed-dating format to help broker links between those developing the new concepts and the end users. This event is for anyone developing new inputs to promote crop performance in the field, including growth stimulants, soil conditioners, dust suppressants and pest management.

If you are a farmer, grower or agronomist, this is a chance to hear about the latest innovations, and understand better the pipeline of discovery that is bringing new ideas to the field.

You can read more about the discussions held at the Pollinator in the full report, which is available free to members on our Publications page.