Recent research by Syngenta in Germany and Ireland has unveiled compelling evidence supporting the efficacy and economic advantages of spot spraying technology, particularly in the context of precision agriculture. This independent study, led by James Thomas in Ireland and Thies Schmoldt in Germany, began in 2022 to assess the viability of spot spraying, focusing on its impact on chemical use, crop yield, and overall profitability.
The findings from these field trials indicate a substantial reduction in chemical usage, which is a significant win for sustainable farming practices. More importantly, the research highlights a noteworthy decrease in phytotoxicity associated with selective herbicides, which can adversely affect crop health. In the trials, crops treated with spot spraying exhibited improved vigor compared to those subjected to conventional blanket treatments. This enhancement in crop quality translated into considerable financial benefits, often surpassing the savings from reduced chemical use alone.
In Germany, Schmoldt’s trials on sugar beet utilized “prescription maps” generated from drone imagery, allowing for targeted application of herbicides rather than blanket spraying. The results were striking: the spot spraying method yielded an additional €300 per hectare due to improved sugar yield while simultaneously reducing chemical costs by €38 to €45 per hectare. Given the high costs of conventional treatments, which can range from €300 to €500 per hectare for up to six applications per season, this approach presents a financially viable alternative for sugar beet growers.
The economic implications of these findings extend beyond mere cost savings. As farmers face increasing scrutiny regarding the environmental impact of chemical applications, the adoption of precision technologies like spot spraying can enhance sustainability. The trials showed that approximately 30% of German growers already possess sprayers capable of implementing this technology, indicating a readiness within the industry to embrace innovative solutions.
The trials were conducted using various sprayer models, including a Horsch Leeb 5LT and an Amazone UX 8201, both of which demonstrated compatibility with the precision technology. The ease of transferring prescription maps to existing sprayer terminals further facilitates the adoption of this method, though it necessitates adequate processing power to manage the complexity of spot spraying.
In Ireland, the focus shifted to controlling broadleaf weeds in grassland through real-time spot spraying. Utilizing a Hardi sprayer equipped with advanced optical sensors, the trials achieved remarkable chemical savings alongside a 30% increase in grass yields compared to traditional blanket treatments. The cost differential was also significant; the standard blanket treatment averaged €114 per hectare, while the optical spot spraying approach cost only €25.45 per hectare, yielding a savings of €88.55.
These results underscore the dual benefits of spot spraying: reduced chemical usage and enhanced crop productivity. By minimizing phytotoxic effects, farmers can avoid the stunted growth that often accompanies conventional herbicide applications. This not only leads to improved yield but also allows for better management of grazing rotations, enabling livestock to graze on treated pastures more quickly.
The research also highlighted the challenges of targeting specific weeds while minimizing damage to beneficial plants like clover. Future trials are planned to refine the technology further, focusing on developing algorithms that can distinguish between target weeds and desirable crops, ensuring that clover and other beneficial species are preserved.
With increasing interest from growers in both Germany and Ireland, the implications of this research are profound. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the integration of precision technologies like spot spraying could play a pivotal role in enhancing productivity, sustainability, and profitability in farming practices.