The British Ornamentals Association conference highlighted a crucial challenge for growers: optimizing spray techniques to get the best results from biologicals. Wih rising pressure to improve efficacy while reducing water use and drift, refining spray applications has never been more critical.
Art of application
Developed through extensive research on ornamental nurseries, Art of Application is a Syngenta initiative designed to enhance spray efficacy. The goal is to ensure biologicals perform at their best by tackling common application challenges, such as blocked nozzles, spray coverage, and compatibility with existing equipment.
Factors for success
For biologicals to be widely adopted in grower programs, they must meet several key criteria, those being adequate shelf life to remain viable until use, superior formulation to prevent nozzle blockages, tolerance to tank agitation and the forces exerted during spraying, and physical and biological compatibility with other tank-mix products.
Current challenges in biocontrol
Despite advancements, growers still face significant challenges when implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. Feedback from the industry has identified pressing concerns such as the ineffectiveness of IPM systems against aphids, mealy bug infestations in Mandevilla, weak biofungicide performance against Botrytis, and Cicada outbreaks.
Enhancing spray applications for better biocontrol
With these ongoing challenges, investing in better spray applications—through improved equipment, staff training, and the use of adjuvants—will be key to driving success in biological control. By refining techniques, growers can maximize the effectiveness of their biocontrol strategies and ensure better results in pest and disease management.
For more information:
Syngenta
www.syngenta.com