Author: Ally Richards, Lead Research Biologist

Efficient and effective spraying is essential for managing pests, diseases, and nutrient needs in tree crops. For decades, growers have relied on traditional spraying methods, but recent advances in precision spraying technology are reshaping orchard management. This post explores the key differences between traditional and precision spraying, highlighting the benefits of modern innovations for growers and the environment. 

Traditional Spraying: Widespread but Inefficient 

Traditional spraying methods involve applying pesticides, herbicides, and nutrients uniformly across entire orchards. While this approach ensures coverage, it often lacks the precision needed to target specific areas or address individual tree needs.  

Key characteristics of traditional spraying include: 

• Uniform Application: Traditional sprayers typically apply the same amount of chemicals regardless of tree size, canopy density, or pest distribution. This can lead to over-application in some areas and under-application in others. 

• Spray Drift: Chemicals often drift away from their intended target due to wind or inadequate equipment calibration, resulting in wasted resources and environmental contamination. 

• High Input Costs: The lack of precision means more chemicals are required to ensure protection, increasing costs for growers. 

• Environmental Impact: Runoff from over-applied chemicals can harm surrounding ecosystems, affecting water quality and non-target species like pollinators. 

While traditional spraying has been effective in providing widespread coverage, its inefficiencies and environmental impact have prompted the development of precision spraying technologies. 

Precision Spraying: A Targeted Approach 

Precision spraying technology leverages tools like GPS, sensors, and data analytics to apply chemicals more accurately and efficiently. Unlike traditional methods, precision spraying tailors application rates to the specific needs of individual trees or areas.  

Key characteristics of precision spraying include:

• Targeted, Smart Application: Precision sprayers use sensors to adjust spray rates, accordingly, ensuring that each tree receives the appropriate amount of treatment. Rigs like the one supplied by AgTechLogic include AI technology Agtellio that also assists in analysis of weed identification, plant health assessment, and more.  

• Reduced Chemical Use: By focusing on application where it’s needed most, precision spraying can reduce pesticide and herbicide use by up to 70%. 

• Minimized Drift: Advanced nozzles and real-time adjustments minimize spray drift, protecting nearby ecosystems and reducing waste. 

• Environmental Sustainability: Precision spraying limits chemical runoff, helping growers comply with stricter environmental regulations and reduce their ecological footprint. 

• Cost Savings: With fewer chemicals wasted, growers can significantly lower input costs, making precision spraying a financially sustainable option.

Key Comparisons 

So…Which Method is Right for Growers? 

While traditional spraying may still have a place in certain contexts due to its simplicity and lower initial costs, precision spraying offers clear advantages for growers looking to optimize resources and adopt sustainable practices. Precision spraying is especially beneficial for orchards with variable tree sizes or pest pressures, where targeted applications can improve outcomes and reduce waste. 

The shift from traditional to precision spraying represents a significant advancement in orchard management. By reducing chemical use, lowering costs, and minimizing environmental impact, precision spraying aligns with the growing demand for sustainable agriculture. For growers, adopting precision spraying technology is not just an investment in better spraying practices—it’s an investment in the future of farming. 

Sources: 

1. Anastasiou, E., Fountas, S., Voulgaraki, M., et al. (2023, June 8). Precision farming technologies for crop protection: A meta-analysis. Smart Agricultural Technology, Volume 5, 2023, 100323. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2023.100323 
2. EPA. (2023, December 20). Nonpoint Source: Agriculture. United States Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/nps/nonpoint-source-agriculture 
3. Goedde, L., Katz, J., Ménard, A., and Revellat, J. (2020, October 9). Agriculture’s connected future: How technology can yield new growth. McKinsey & Company. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/agriculture/our-insights/agricultures-connected-future-how-technology-can-yield-new-growth 
4. Ozkan, E. (2022, January 12). Best Practices for Effective Spraying in Orchards and Vineyards. Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University. https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/fabe-539 
5. USDA ARS. (2023, July 12). Benefits and Evolution of Precision Agriculture. US Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Research Service. https://www.ars.usda.gov/oc/utm/benefits-and-evolution-of-precision-agriculture/ 
6. USDA NIFA. Adoption of Precision Agriculture. US Department of Agriculture, National Institute of Food and Agriculture. https://www.nifa.usda.gov/grants/programs/precision-geospatial-sensor-technologies-programs/adoption-precision-agriculture
7. Xerces Society. The Risks of Pesticides to Pollinators. Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. https://www.xerces.org/pesticides/risks-pesticides-pollinators