Evaluating the effectiveness of low volume spray application using air-assisted knapsack sprayers in wine vineyards

Abstract

We evaluated spray coverage on grape leaves and bunches by a high-volume sprayer (HVS), an air-assisted, low volume knapsack sprayer (LVS), and a motorized knapsack dust applicator modified to spray liquid formulations (common sprayer – CS). At the full development of the vine canopy 1400, 250 and 150¿L ha-1 were applied via HVS, CS and LVS, respectively. Sprayer type, leaf or bunch orientation, leaf position and leaf side significantly affected spray coverage (P¿<¿0.001).