How frequently should calibration of herbicide application equipment occur?

Calibration of herbicide application equipment is essential for ensuring accurate and effective application. Regular calibration helps to ensure that the correct amount of herbicide is applied to the target area, which minimizes waste, reduces the risk of damage to non-target plants, and enhances overall efficacy.

Ideally, calibration should occur before each use and at the beginning of the application season. This practice allows for adjustments based on potential changes in equipment performance, environmental conditions, or variations in herbicide formulations. Consistent calibration helps maintain application precision, which is crucial for successful weed control and environmental safety.

In contrast, calibrating only once a year may not provide sufficient assurance of accuracy throughout the application season, as equipment performance can change over time. Similarly, calibrating only when new herbicides are introduced overlooks the need for regular checks on ongoing applications, while monthly or bi-weekly calibrations may be excessive and impractical, considering that calibration before each use is usually adequate to ensure optimal performance.