Why Use an Adjuvant?

• Spray Solutions - to increase wetting and spreading  
• Spray Droplets - to maximise retention  
• Target Surfaces - to maximise uptake/penetration

They are management tools to optimize your pesticide applications

Application Issues

Adjuvants perform specific functions to minimise spray problems / maximise spray efficiency e.g:-

 

Problem	Required Adjuvant Property
Waxy/hairy targets	Wetting/spreading
Dense canopy
Catchy weather	Sticking
Deposition/retention	Sticking/wetting
Spray drift	Reduction of fine droplets
Poor uptake	Penetrant
Pesticide lock up	Water acidification

Adjuvants perform specific functions to minimise spray problems, however, no single adjuvant can perform all these functions.

Justification for Adjuvant Use

The previous table shows that all not all adjuvants are alike, but there is a clear technical justification for using the RIGHT adjuvant within it's authorisation e.g.:-

1. The Pesticide label specifies the need for an adjuvant.

2. You can clearly identify specific problems that will reduce pesticide efficacy unless you use an adjuvant.

3. There is reliable data showing an performance / economic benefit

They differ greatly as to:-

• Chemistry

• Function

• Dosage

• Quality

• Specificity

• Packaging Quality

• Manufacturer Support

• Independent Trials Base