Click on “Download PDF” for the PDF version or on the title for the HTML version.

If you are not an ASABE member or if your employer has not arranged for access to the full-text, Click here for options.

For many years researchers have tried to define the ideal carrier volume for pesticide application in orchards. With the multitude of work that has been done there must be some form of agreement on the subject. An analytical literature review was conducted which considered the differences in equipment, orchard, pest and pesticide used to attempt to reveal a consensus.

Chemical mode of action and dose applied were the most important parameters considered, a direct relationship could be seen over and above all the other parameters. The effects of volume applied were variable due to their dependence on other influencing parameters, such as tree size sprayer type and dose rate. Improved control was achieved with lower volume rates but not necessarily by the use of specialised low volume sprayers, this implies that it is the effect of concentration rather than the distribution of pesticide within the canopy.