What is a qualitative sign that rates are being misapplied?

• A. Changes in leaf color.
• B. Under- or over-application detected during field inspection or calibration checks.
• C. Increased turf growth.
• D. No signs at all.

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that a clear, observable indicator of misapplied rates comes from directly checking the application process itself. When you perform a field inspection or calibration check, you’re measuring what the sprayer actually delivers and comparing it to the intended rate. If the measured output per area doesn’t match the target—showing under- or over-application—you have a definite sign that the rate is being misapplied. This kind of evidence is qualitative because it's based on what you can observe and measure about the application equipment and procedure, not on plant responses alone.

Other signs like changes in leaf color or increased turf growth can result from many factors besides rate accuracy, so they’re not reliable indicators of misapplication by themselves. And the absence of visible signs doesn’t prove the rate was correct; misapplication can occur without obvious symptoms, which is why calibration checks are the most direct cue.