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Fruit
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Now best time to winterize ground sprayer
November 16, 2011 By Michigan State University Extension
NEWS HIGHLIGHT
Now best time to winterize ground sprayer
Any
grower who uses a ground sprayer will benefit from knowing proper winterizing
procedures to ensure the sprayer will function properly in the spring.
November 16, 2011 – Any
grower who uses a ground sprayer will benefit from knowing proper winterizing
procedures to ensure the sprayer will function properly in the spring.
As the weather cools and
the growing season ends, farmers will need to prepare pesticide application
equipment, such as ground sprayers, for prolonged storage time.
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Thoroughly rinsing the
sprayer with a small amount of clean water several times will rid it of
pesticide residues.
Drain all water out of
the sprayer to prevent freezing water damage. Dispose of rinsate (the water
used to clean the sprayer) in a field away from all water sources. Do not let
the water accumulate into puddles. It’s best to rinse out the sprayer on a
surface that cannot easily absorb liquids. Collect the rinsate and dispose of
it at a Clean Sweep public distribution site. The sites allow growers to dispose of
their chemicals properly to avoid health issues.
“If there’s a problem,
the farmer’s household is usually the first that is impacted,” said Christina
Curell, Michigan State University Extension educator.
After spraying out all
remaining residues, clean and decontaminate the sprayer. Farmers can purchase
chemical cleaning agents, but household cleaners will work just fine.
Wearing proper personal
protective equipment, check for any damages and make any necessary repairs to
your sprayer. Inspect the tank as well as nozzles, screens, hoses, valves,
pumps and the boom.
After careful
inspection, remove any removable parts and clean filters with soapy water.
Store the removable parts in an area that is not likely to freeze, if possible.
Last, run antifreeze through the entire system to prevent freezing-water
damage.
For more information on
winterizing ground sprayers, visit MSU Extension
News.
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