Study of the correlation between foliar and patternator deposits in a “Tendone” vineyard

The correct sprayer setting is a key point in all phytosanitary treatments to optimise efficacy and reduce environmental impact. The goal can be achieved with the appropriate choice of the operative parameters such as forward speed, airflow rate, volume rate, working pressure and nozzle types. Moreover, sprayer calibration requires adapting the distribution profile, i.e. the spatial distribution of the sprayed mixture, according to the geometrical and morphological features of the target. Distribution profiles may be assessed by using special patternators able to intercept the spray jet. The present paper analysed the correlations between distribution profiles, leaf area index (LAI) and foliar deposits measured during treatments in a “tendone” vineyard. All correlations between patternator deposits and LAI of the vineyard and between foliar deposits and patternator deposits were statistically significant, with determination coefficients ranging from 0.724 to 0.999. These results demonstrate the importance of patternators as powerful tools during the sprayer calibration process.