GROUNDSKEEPING
MEASURE UP TO KNAPSACK CALIBRATION
In an era of rising prices and green credentials , optimising the quantity of treatment liquids you apply can benefit the bottom line and aid biodiversity .
Knapsack sprayer calibration is key in achieving best practice and ProLawnCare UK runs courses for operatives to help ensure they run sprayers to maximum efficiency , while limiting environmental impact .
“ It ’ s key to apply the dose appropriate to the application ,” says managing director Richard Salmon . “ Overdosing can stress the grass plant and risk liquids entering watercourses . Underdosing though could mean you may end up applying more liquid than ’ s needed , by repeating the application which didn ’ t work first time because it was under dosed .”
The company already works closely with lawncare specialist providers - the knapsack calibration course is a new addition to their services .
“ Three factors have to be right to achieve the magic number for the correct and accurate application of the prescribed liquid application . “ Richard explains , “ walking speed , nozzle output and spray width , to create a simple solution to apply the product mixture accurately . The choice of nozzle is important too , whether choosing to use an anvil / deflector or flat fan for the appropriate treatment .
“ The problem is that PA1 and PA6 appears to only train operators to pass an exam , rather than teaching them the practicalities of treating lawns and understanding sprayer calibration in a practical way , which is why we have introduced our course to meet a need across the sector .”
Richard uses Cooper Pegler CP3 2000 knapsacks to demonstrate correct calibration methods . “ They ’ ve been my go-to sprayers for 25 years - My first one lasted 15 years . I believe in buying well , buying once .”
He also stresses the importance of regular maintenance and correct practice in limiting sprayer downtime and ensuring long lifetime . “ I see very tired and ineffective nozzles when I test out a trainee on day one of the course We spray water on a dry , concreted area and to the amazement of the operative it often highlights an erratic spray pattern they are generating .
“ Always flush your sprayer out after every job - never leave chemicals in there , especially overnight . Liquids such as ferrous sulphate are corrosive and will damage the sprayer ’ s metal parts , such as in the trigger .”
Richard concludes : “ Knapsacks have more flexibility in applying a variety of treatments in one tank mixture , which is why I ’ m encouraging more operators to apply liquid feeds , including seaweed and wetting agents all in one single pass .”
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