Which measures help minimize spray drift when treating turf near flowering plants?

• A. Applying during flowering with large droplets.
• B. Using drift reduction and barriers if needed.
• C. Increasing application rate to cover more area.
• D. Applying only after rainfall.

Answer: (B)

Minimizing spray drift around flowering plants relies on using methods that keep the spray where you intend and prevent off-target movement. The best approach combines drift-reduction techniques with barriers to block any droplets that might travel beyond the turf border. Drift-reducing practices include selecting nozzles designed to produce larger droplets, applying at appropriate pressures, and keeping the boom at a height that limits airshear and drift. When feasible, placing a physical barrier or buffer between the treated turf and flowering plants—such as a hedge, screen, or other vegetation—helps intercept droplets before they reach blooms. Together, these measures protect pollinators and ornamentals while still delivering the product to the turf.

While using larger droplets might lessen drift, spraying during flowering still risks deposit on flowers and pollinators, and is not the preferred safeguard. Increasing the application rate raises the amount of product in the air and does not reduce drift. Applying after rainfall doesn’t address drift conditions and can lead to runoff or reduced efficacy, so it isn’t a reliable drift-minimizing strategy.