Calibrate hand-held sprayers by 1) spraying a known area using water, 2) measuring the amount of water applied, and 3) calculating the number of gallons applied per acre (gpa). For example, 1.5 gallons on 1,000 sq. ft. is the same as 65 gallons per acre.
(43,560 sq. ft. per acre / 1,000 sq. ft.) x 1.5 gallon = 65 gpa.
The desired rate in lb/A or pt/A or oz/A is used to calculate the amount of product to add to the spray solution. For example, If 3 pt/A is desired:
3 pt/A / 65 gpa =
0.046 pt. or 0.74 fl. Oz. or
1.5 tablespoons per
gallon of spray solution
(16 fl. oz. = 1 pt.;
2 tablespoons = 1 fl. Oz.).
When calibration of a hand-held sprayer is not
possible and the product used is safe to the environment and non-target
plants, a volume of
50 to 70 gpa can be assumed. However, the actual volume
applied can vary considerably with the type of sprayer, spray pressure and
technique of the applicator, so calibration is strongly encouraged.
For a more indepth look at two small sprayer calibration methods, visit http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/forestry/456-502/456-502.html#L2 Hope this helps!
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