|
Facts from the Field: #6
Tools and Tips from Rainbow Ag
Adjusting the Volume to Low
There's been a lot of noise in the marketplace about the benefits of low volume spraying. After some big disappointments in the field, many growers are taking a step back from what they see as a failed experiment.
At Rainbow, we think low-volume spraying has been poorly understood, and it's led to unnecessary disillusionment. True low volume spraying offers wonderful benefits: it saves money by saving refill time, by reducing chemical application rates and by permitting you to purchase a smaller machine in the first place. When properly applied, the smaller droplet size, along with more accurate coverage capabilities, leads to greater canopy penetration, thereby reducing the risks of disease and infestation.
As we see it, the main problem has been confusion about how to choose the correct low-volume sprayer to ensure success. It really depends on your vineyard configuration.
If your rows are planted in the narrower European-style, your canopy will have less density. In this case, an ultra-low volume sprayer will offer you fantastic savings. A sprayer that delivers 10-20 gals of material per acre is going to save you a bundle.
But those ultra-low rates could spell disaster in the conventional vineyard plantings. These vineyards have wider rows and much denser canopies, and application rates simply have to be higher to get the job done right. In this type of vineyard, low volume can be considered to be about 20-80 gals per acre. This is a huge step down from the 100-200 gals per acre application rates that are delivered by the old air-blast sprayers. It's a big difference, and it will save big money.
As in life, one size does not fit all. Understanding the relationship between your vineyard configuration and sprayer features will permit you to reap the benefits of a low-volume strategy, without exposing your crop to risk.
Suddenly, low-volume spraying is something to shout about.
If you have questions about your sprayer, or if you'd like to understand more about low-volume spray strategies, e-mail a Rainbow expert at: sprayers@rainbowag.com.
|
|
|
Flexibility and Precision from Hardi
Now only $3995
Hardi sprayers are engineered to ensure the efficient and precise application of crop protection products. They're easy to operate and hold up to the beating they get in the field.
The heart of the Hardi sprayer is a diaphragm pump. Because it separates sprayer liquid from the working parts, it helps keep wear and corrosion at a minimum. Durable polyethylene tanks and a two-step filtration system reduce down time.
Capable of delivering from 10 to 350 gallons per acre, they are adaptable to your field conditions today.
Rainbow Ag is the Exclusive Hardi Sprayer Dealer on the North Coast. We have a great deal on the Hardie LB50.
• 50-gallon tank
• 13-GPM pump
• conventional
3 pt sprayer
• 22-in. axial fan
• vineyard deflector
Now only $3995
(limited to stock on hand)
Mention this ad for the special pricing.
Jim Munson, Northern Lake/Mendocino
(707) 468-6549 (pager)
munsonjim@netscape.net
Bob Mitrovich, Napa/Sonoma
(707) 316-2108 (pager)
BobMitro@aol.com
Jerry Smith, Napa/Sonoma
(707) 324-1940 (pager)
jvsmithbow@aol.com
Ron Breedlove, Southern Mendocino/Northern Sonoma
(707) 316-1175 (pager)
breedloveron@hotmail.com
|
|
|
Did you know...
That reducing droplet diameter by utilizing low-volume spraying equipment has a dramatic effect on the number of drops a given volume of liquid will produce?
Each time droplet size is halved, it increases the number of droplets by a figure of eight. So, halving a single 400 mm droplet produces eight 200 mm droplets, radically improving your coverage and, in good spraying weather, almost eliminating the problem of drift.
|
|
At $6.05 per Hour,
It's a Darn Good Deal from John Deere
 Do you know exactly how much it will cost you to keep your old tractor fleet in the field this season? Probably not. Maintenance is an unpredictable cost and, as equipment ages, uncertainty increases. Unexpected repair costs can wipe out profits.
Rainbow has a solution, and we've got it figured to the penny. Based on a three-year, 900-hour per year lease and subject to credit approval, a John Deere 4wd narrow vineyard tractor model 5310N, fully warranted, maintenance ensured, will cost you as low as $6.05 per hour.
Take control of your operating costs today. Increase your up-time in the field. Get the benefit of the best new features on today's tractors, and leave all the headaches to Rainbow.
For more information contact one of the Rainbow Ag Field representatives listed above, or e-mail Rainbow at greatleases@rainbowag.com.
Jim Munson: Building Success on Solid Experience
 When Jim Munson delivers a piece of equipment to one of his customers, he wants to see it work. He also insists on making sure it performs to its full potential. Having spent his life in the agricultural industry, he has the knowledge and experience to make sure that's what happens-every time.
Jim grew up in an agricultural region, as did his father. Jim's dad learned the best of the old ways from the Amish people he had grown up with, and he taught what he learned to Jim. Because Jim started out in the service end of the ag business, he understands equipment inside and out. This unique background gives Jim the ability to offer his customers commonsense advice and knowledgeable service that combines the best of the old ways with cutting-edge technology and, time and again, it's been a big help when problems arise in the field.
As a Rainbow sales representative for 14 years, Jim realized long ago that his success is directly tied to the strength of his partnership with growers throughout his territory in Lake and Northern Mendocino Counties. He stands by his sales with extraordinary service. Call him any time: By cell phone at (707) 489-0257; on his pager 468-6549; at his home office 279-7979; or, reach him by calling Rainbow at 462-2404.
At Rainbow Agricultural Services, our primary interest is providing great
service to our customers. If you have questions or comments, or if there is any way we can serve you better, please e-mail us at:
facts@rainbowag.com
Your privacy is very important to us.
If you would like to "unsubscribe" from this newsletter, please let us know
by e-mailing:
offthelist@rainbowag.com
We will remove your address from our mailing list as soon as possible.
RAINBOW AGRICULTURAL SERVICES
UKIAH: 235 E Perkins St., 95482, Ph. 707-462-2404, Fax 707-462-3627
CALISTOGA: 810 Foothill Blvd., 94515, Ph. 707-942-4566, Fax 707-942-9668
NOVATO: 7546 Redwood Blvd., 94945, Ph. 415-892-1030, Fax 415-893-1481
LAKEPORT: 1975 Argonaut Rd., 95453, Ph. 707-279-0550, Fax 707-279-0594
Copyright © 2001 Rainbow Agricultural Services
|
|
|
