A pneumatic-powered spraying secateur for use in commercial orchards and vineyards

Abstract

This paper describes a simple pneumatic-powered spray-control device, incorporating a piston valve and spray nozzle, which enables wounds to be treated with a biocide while pruning with a standard pneumatic secateur. The pattern of spray deposited on targets, and rate of delivery, are consistent with the requirements for protecting pruning wounds from invasion by vascular pathogens such as Eutypa lata and Chondrostereum purpureum. Field tests in two commercial apricot orchards have shown that the unit was reliable and durable in normal service and acceptable to operators accustomed to using pneumatic-powered pruning equipment.