Weeding is an important stage for achieving good yields, however, the results depend heavily on the timing of application, the precision of the equipment, and the uniformity of the treatment. Whether we're talking about controlling weeds, diseases, or pests, the optimal work window is often very short. If application is not done in a timely and precise manner, product losses, increased costs, and weaker crop protection can occur.
For quick and efficient work, a farmer needs a sprayer capable of delivering high productivity, uniform application, and good spray control. Generally, the productivity of a sprayer is influenced by working speed, working width, tank capacity, and the time required for ancillary operations, such as preparing the equipment, filling the tank, rinsing, travelling to the filling point, turning at the end of a row, or transport.
Why does reducing overlaps in herbicide application matter
Overlaps occur when treatment is applied multiple times to the same area. This can mean increased substance consumption, additional costs, and reduced effectiveness in plant protection. At the same time, areas that are not covered correctly can affect the treatment outcome and the uniformity of the work.
Reducing overlaps during herbicide application helps farmers better control product consumption and achieve more precise application. Automatic section control systems, such as Section Control, This allows for the reduction of overlapping areas and contributes to more efficient use of inputs.
„A very important thing to consider is the cost of substances, which is quite significant for the farmer. If we use a high-performance sprayer, we can reduce costs by up to 3–5%. ”This can be achieved by using automatic section shut-off, which reduces overlap, avoids areas of double application and ensures targeted treatment,” said Diana Sandu, IPSO product specialist.
The role of nozzles in herbicide application accuracy
Selecting the right nozzle is as important as choosing the sprayer. For correct application, the operator must consider working speed, application rate, spraying technique, and spray quality. The size of the sprayed droplets varies depending on the working pressure and influences how the treatment reaches the crop.
When applying foliar herbicides, small droplets achieved by fine spraying are necessary. The same rule applies to fungicides and insecticides that act via contact. Medium droplets are used for systemic action fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides. In contrast, for systemic, residual, or soil-acting herbicides, nozzles that spray large droplets are required.
By correctly choosing the nozzles, the treatment can be applied more uniformly, and the efficiency in plant protection can be maintained across the entire treated area.
Seria M700 – John Deere Trailed Sprayers
The John Deere M700 tracked sprayer series includes models M724, M732/M732i and M740/M740i. These are equipped with a tank capacity of 2,400 litres, 3,200 litres or 4,000 litres and with a working boom from 18 m to 30 m.
The M700 series ensures a maximum productivity of 45 hectares/hour at a forward speed of 15 km/h and a working width of 30 m. If the time required for actions complementary to the actual spraying is removed from this value, the real productivity is 23 hectares/hour.
John Deere trailed sprayers are designed with a low centre of gravity and compact transport dimensions, contributing to stability in the field and during transport. The parallelogram boom lift system allows for a greater range of adjustment, and the even weight distribution of the booms helps with boom stability during operation.
Useful features for even application and better control
The tank is robust and features high-pressure injectors for fast and efficient agitation and cleaning. Control is managed via the multifunction joystick of the GreenStar colour monitor, which automatically maintains flow rate and ensures a constant spray rate, regardless of working speed.
The M700 series trailed sprayers are equipped with a high-capacity piston and diaphragm pump for rapid filling. They feature a primary circuit for the chemical inductor, washing, and agitation, as well as a secondary circuit for herbicide application.
Spraying adjustment, control and monitoring procedures are displayed and controlled from the Gen 4 monitor. Automated section control, guidance, height sensors present on the TerrainControl frame, and LED work lights are solutions that contribute to optimising treatment quality and extending the available spraying window.
Intelligent models can be equipped with the optional TerrainControl Pro system, which adjusts the inclination and height of the spray boom under different circumstances. Once the steering drawbar is also selected, the flank.
Precision in herbicide application means better controlled costs.
Avoiding overlaps when applying herbicides not only leads to cleaner work but also better cost control. Through uniform application, reducing areas of double application, and using precision technologies, farmers can use plant protection products more efficiently.
For farms aiming for productivity, reduced consumption, and precision farming, choosing the right sprayer can have a significant impact during the season. IPSO offers machinery for herbicide application and fertilisation, and farmers can discuss with IPSO specialists to identify the solution suitable for the farm's needs.
