Effect of target wettability on spray droplet adhesion retention spreading and coverage artificial collectors versus plant surfaces

Abstract

This study demonstrated that natural foliage and artificial collectors range in surface wettability affecting spray adhesion retention spreading and coverage Therefore the choice of artificial collector or natural foliage depends on the scientific question If the volume of spray available to the canopy or spray accountancy is to be determined then an artificial collector that will intercept and retain all of the spray is required Careful consideration of collector is required to meet stated objectives For example water sensitive paper is an excellent aid to sprayer setup but does not distinguish differences between formulations It also provides no indication of retention or coverage on the crop surface All artificial collectors tested were poor indicators of adhesion and retention by and spreading and coverage on natural plant surfaces and should not be substituted for natural plant surfaces in field trials attempting to quantify spray retention and coverage on the crop surfaces