Patch Spraying in the UK Nicola Perry

Pesticide application Patch spraying of herbicides Variable fungicide and growth regulator Matching application to target dose application

Spatially variable pesticide application All systems need: – in-field location – method of detection visual mapping for weed patches spectral reflectance for crop canopy – treatment map generated software packages are being developed – system for application injection metering control volume rate systems with a wide operating range

SAPPIO LINK Project Exploiting Weed Patch Dynamics Research Partners IACR-Rothamsted, Silsoe Res. Inst. Industrial Partners AGCO, Micron Sprayers, HGCA

Aim of project To develop a spatially selective weed control system for arable crops, that delivers a reduction in herbicide use and consequent financial benefit to users and to the environment

Research areas Mapping based on visual detection Patch stability Feasibility of automated detection Validate system

Weed patch detection

Timing of visual assessments

Crop canopy monitoring Or from: aircraft or satellites

Treatment map generation

Defined treatment map

Herbicide savings Cost of mapping approx. €3/ha

Project Demonstration Live demonstration of weed mapping and patch spraying Attended by farmers/contractors, advisors, industry, environment / regulatory authorities Reported in UK farming press

Current Status of Patch Spraying in the UK Variable rate Micron PatchSpray ~ 10 operating in UK Injection metering ~ 50 operating in UK ~ only a few interfaced with a map based control system Switching on/off?

Problems with implementing patch spraying Management not as straightforward Involves greater level of decision making Collecting and handling data Make technology and interface easier to manage (Economics)