A Surface-Roller Herbicide Applicator for Weed Control in Turf

Abstract

A surface-roller wiper that rotates by direct contact with the ground was developed to apply herbicides to broadleaf weeds in turf. The free-wheeling roller 1.8 m wide consists of a 30-cm diam PVC pipe covered with a 1.3-cm thick carpet The herbicide is delivered by gravity to the carpet through a pipe manifold. Broadleaf weeds in turf were effectively controlled with 2,4-D roller applied once as a2%solution (2.2 kg ae/ha) or twice as a 1% solution (1.1 kg/ha). Herbicide drift was avoided with the roller applicator as indicated by lack of injury to tomato plants downwind from 2,4-D roller applied as a5%(5.6 kg/ha) solution.