August 15, 2018
- Some products approved for tank mixing with XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology require the use of an approved drift reduction agent (DRA).
- Use the higher operating spray pressures, within the approved range for the specific nozzle, and the lowest labelled DRA rate when using a DRA with a tank mixture.
- An application rate of 15 GPA is recommended to improve coverage, especially when higher weed populations are present.
XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology has specific requirements for nozzles, adjuvants, drift reduction agents (DRA), and other herbicides. Some products approved for tank mixing with XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology require the use of an approved DRA. For a complete list of approved nozzles and tank-mix products, visit www.xtendimaxapplicationrequirements.com.
To optimize the spray pattern and herbicide delivery within the recommended parameters, applicators need to follow the proper order of mixing herbicides and additives and use proper ground speed, approved nozzle types, adequate spray pressure, adequate gallons per acre (GPA) delivery, and correct boom height. Below are some guidelines to help optimize herbicide delivery when applying a DRA with XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology:
DRA rate. When using an approved DRA for tank-mix products, as required by the XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology label, the lowest rate allowed by the DRA label is recommended. Only use approved DRAs.
Mixing products. Using the proper order of mixing multiple products can help avoid incompatibility that may reduce product efficacy or increase drift. Start with 1/2 to 3/4 volume of water in the tank and constant agitation prior to adding a product directly to the tank or through an inductor. Add and mix each product individually. If an inductor is used, add one product to the inductor at a time and pump it into the spray tank. Rinse the inductor thoroughly after each component has been added.
Refer to the tank-mix product labels to confirm that the respective products are registered for the specific crop use. Refer to all individual product labels, supplemental labels, and fact sheets for all products in a tank mixture. Observe all precautions and limitations on each label. Use according to the most restrictive precautionary language statements for each product in the tank mixture.
Nozzle type and pressure. Nozzle pressure can not only influence droplet size but also spray pattern. Use the higher operating spray pressures, within the approved range for the specific nozzle, when using a DRA with a tank mixture to improve coverage (see Table 1 and www.xtendimaxapplicationrequirements.com for the most up-to-date information). Figure 1 shows how the spray distribution pattern is improved with higher pressure (the maximum psi) versus lower pressure (the minimum psi). Nozzle selection is one of the most important parameters for drift control. Not all DRAs are compatible with every nozzle type and pesticide/adjuvant combination. Check with the additive manufacturer to ensure that the DRA will work properly with the spray nozzle, spray pressure, and specific spray solution.
The applicator needs to consider that operating pressure readings may be different "in the cab" (prior to screens and strainers) and at the boom where the pressure should be in the recommended range. During the initial application pass, with the sprayer operating at the desired speed and pressure, verify that the boom height is appropriate for the spray pattern overlap, not exceeding 24 inches above the target pest or crop canopy, and nozzles are providing coverage of the target pests for effective control.
Application rate. Systemic herbicides generally work well at 10 GPA or higher; however, the use of DRAs result in the formation of ultra coarse droplets and higher application volumes are needed for adequate coverage. An application rate of 15 GPA is recommended to improve coverage, especially when higher weed populations are present.
Applicators are required to consult www.xtendimaxapplicationrequirements.com no more than 7 days before application for a complete list of nozzles, DRAs, and other herbicides, pesticides, and additives approved for use with XtendiMax with VaporGrip Technology.
