See tips from the folks at UF/IFAS for enhancing your herbicide spot applications in your citrus groves.
Maintenance herbicide programs often miss weeds in citrus groves, so herbicides spot applications are necessary. A recent UF/IFAS Tip of the Week shared key tips to “to improve the success of spot spraying in citrus groves.” See them below
Tips to Improve Herbicide Spot Applications
The blog article shared these tips to enhance herbicide spot applications:
“Hit Your Target: Accurate targeting is key. Ensure the herbicide spray lands directly on the weeds without affecting the trees. To achieve this, use a nozzle that produces larger droplets to minimize spray drift. Consider using a low application volume of herbicide — enough to cover the weeds but not so much that it drifts into unintended areas. Always calibrate the sprayer used for spot application to make sure it delivers the right amount of herbicide. When spraying near newly planted trees, be extra cautious. A shielded sprayer can help protect the young trees from spray damage.”
“Use the Right Rate: It is often easier for applicators to mix a spot-spray solution based on a specific percentage of herbicide per volume of water. To achieve effective weed control, determine the appropriate concentration of herbicide to water (% volume/volume) for spot spraying. Always check the product label for the recommended application rates to achieve the best results.”
“Check Your Work: For stubborn weeds, follow-up spot treatments may be required, following the product label instructions. Adding a dye to the herbicide solution helps track where it is already applied, minimizing the risk of missing areas and ensuring more consistent weed control. The dye also helps plan any needed follow-up applications.”
“Watch the Weather: For effective spot spraying, choose calm weather with minimal wind to avoid herbicide drift into unintended areas. Avoid spraying during or just before rain, as the herbicide can be washed away and lose its effectiveness.”
“Protect Yourself: When using a handheld sprayer for spot spraying, make sure to wear the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) listed on the herbicide label. This includes gloves, long sleeves, pants and eye protection to ensure the safety of the applicator.”
Griffin Fertilizer is committed to helping both growers and ranchers make sound agronomic and economic decisions in order to maximize the health of their grove and pasture. As a full-service custom dry & liquid fertilizer blender and crop protection product distributor, we will continue our mission to further advance Florida agriculture. For questions -or concerns about your farm or pasture, contact us and one of our team will be in touch.
