Efficacy of Apogee~R (prohexadione calcium) on Mcintosh Apple Comparing Two Pesticide Application Technologies, a Disc-Core Type Hollow Cone Nozzle and Air Induction Nozzle

摘要

Fruit and vegetable growers and landscapers alike are recently being pressured by neighbors and legislators to reduce drift on their orchards, vineyards, and other horticultural operations. Pesticide costs continue to rise and growers need to improveapplication methods if they are to minimize costs to remain competitive and avoid prosecution under increasing environmental legislation. (Landers, 2002) Spray application technology research is necessary to improve spray deposition as well as reduce drift. Recent research suggests Al nozzles can reduce drift. Air inclusion nozzles produce droplets with a size or volume median diameter (VMD) of 450 ]xm. Cone nozzles on average have a VMD of 220 mum. Thus, Al nozzles by nature are less susceptible to drift. (Balsari, 2001) However, biological efficacy trials are needed to understand if new delivery methods (i.e. Al nozzles) are suitable alternatives to conventional application technologies. While the potential for drift reduction using Al nozzles has been well researched, few trials have evaluated orchard air-blast Al nozzle pesticide efficacy, and fewer have studied plant growth regulator (PGR) efficacy under these regimes. Most recently, CrossResearch Support Speciahst , Dept. of Horticultural Science, Cornell University, Hedrick Hall, New York State Ag. Exp. Station Geneva, NY 14456. Pesticide Application Technology Specialist, Dept. of Entomology, Cornell University, Barton Hall, NYSAES, Geneva, NY, 14456.