Basics
Application Types:
1. Spot Spraying = Where only the target weed is treated. For example, Ragwort where the surroundings remain untouched. This type of spraying is in compliance with the NRA 2008 specs. (Spot spraying is now required in all situations by EU Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive S.I. No. 155.)
2. Band Spraying = Spraying that involves treating a narrow or wide band - for example, French Drains.
3. Weed Wipe = Used in selected sites.
4. Injection = Used in sensitive surroundings eg. JKW growing through a hedge.
5. Broadcast = Used in Agriculture alone. This is outside our remit, though we are certified.
Product Types:
The spray products used may be broken into 3 types for simplicity:
Contact Herbicide: This type of spray only kills the part of plant the product touches, leaving the remainder of the plant unharmed. It will not control the whole plant unless total coverage is achieved, hence the high volume rates required.
Systemic Herbicide: This type of spray can touch any part of the plant to control it. Low volume rates are often used.
Residual Herbicide: This type of spray is applied to the ground and absorbed through roots, typically in high volume water. It might be considered obsolete, hence out of use. It is shunned for environmental reasons.
Total Kill:
“Total” kill, means the product kills everything treated, irrespective of vegetation type. This is typical of spraying on footways & margins.
Selective Kill:
“Selective” kill, means it kills it’s target weed alone. This leaves adjoining vegetation untouched. This is typical of Ragwort treatment, where the site appears untreated and ONLY the Ragwort dies (unnoticed). Ragwort is “spot” sprayed using a “selective”, to protect insects & the environment. Selectives are available for every target weed.
Another common use is in greens (gardens), where only target weeds are controlled (killed).