An appropriate technical inspection methodology to tackle the great diversity of spray equipment used in Flemish greenhouses

摘要

Cultivation under glass of vegetables and ornamentals has become increasingly important in the Flemish region (Belgium) over the last decade. The number of enterprises is not really growing in a significant way, but the average area has increased considerably. This expansion allows or obliges the companies to organise also their crop protection in a more professional way. An example of this more professional approach is the introduction of spray booms instead of the generally used spray lances. An important instrument to adjust this spray equipment is the test results obtained from the mandatory technical inspection. A specific inspection methodology for greenhouse spray equipment with a horizontal, vertical or composed spray boom was developed. Itdescribes in detail which sprayer parts need to be evaluated and how this should be done. This study revealed that very few of the growers have a sufficient competence about the spray equipment they use and the best spray application strategy they shouldbe implementing in their business!