A backpack sprayer comes in handy when you want to control pests and weeds on a small farm. Although its functionality resembles that of a hand sprayer by a great deal, the backpack is more efficient and comfortable. Since the sprayer is equipped with shoulder straps, it’s easy to carry it around. The other advantage is that it doesn’t require refilling like the hand sprayer because it has a bigger tank.
Besides that, it’s very economical in the long run because it’s not powered by any fuel. The problem with first time farmers is that they don’t know how to use the backpack sprayer. They therefore fail in countering pests and weeds attacks even when they use premium products. Below are tips that should guide you on how to use the backpack sprayer effectively.
1. Always Read the User Manual
When you buy a backpack sprayer, you have to assemble it first. Since every sprayer package includes a user manual, it’s recommended you first read it so you can understand how to assemble the whole unit. When you refer to the user guide manual, you are less likely to make any mistakes when connecting the fittings because you will be following the instructions that have been provided by the manufacturer. If you don’t stick to the instructions of the manufacturer, the sprayer will definitely develop technical faults such as leakages and drips.
2. Maintain Pressure in the Tank
Once you have poured the herbicide or the pesticide into the tank of the sprayer, you should keep pumping using the lever that’s usually located on one side. Ideally, you should pump after every 2 to 3 minutes. This helps in retaining the pressure of the solution which ensures that the herbicide is uniformly distributed over the crops or plants. Besides that, pumping prevents powder form solutions from settling at the bottom of the tank. Pumping therefore aids in maintaining the concentration of the solution.
3. Wear Protective Clothing
Before you start spraying your crops with a backpack sprayer, it’s important you wear protective clothing. Lest you forget, pesticides and herbicides pose a great risk to your health. As a matter of fact, some of these solutions are highly corrosive. Wearing protective clothing is the only solution that can help in preventing your body from coming into contact with such chemicals. You should always ensure that you wear gum boots, waterproof gloves, helmet, apron and gas mask.
4. Never Spray Against the Wind
By the rule of the thumb, you should avoid spraying against the wind. This is because you will end up inhaling the toxic solution. In fact, you should not spray your crops when there are strong winds. This is due to the fact that the wind will cause the solution to go further away from the intended target. You should only spray when there is mild wind or calm breeze. Additionally, you should always point the nozzle of the sprayer away from your body to avoid spraying your feet. If you want to get a wide angle of coverage, you should raise the wand a little above your knees.
5. Wash the Sprayer after Use
Once you have finished spraying your crops, it’s recommended you wash the sprayer with soapy water. You should actually wash both the inside and the outside of the tank. This will ensure that the residue of the solution you have just used will not contaminate the next herbicide or pesticide.
Remember, impurities can have a negative effect on the performance of chemical solutions.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
