Application method affects pesticide efficiency and effectiveness in wheat fields

BACKGROUND There is an urgent need to enhance pesticide effectiveness while reducing adverse environmental impacts, based on the pesticide reduction program that requires net zero growth in chemical pesticide applications by 2020. Agricultural production can benefit from appropriate pesticide application using the optimal method. In this study, the effects of different application methods on the effectiveness, spray deposition, and residue behaviour of 48% phenamacril · tebuconazole suspension concentrate (SC) in wheat production were compared to determine the most efficient and effective method. RESULTS 48% phenamacril · tebuconazole SC was most effective in controlling Fusarium head blight (FHB) and mycotoxin contamination. Statistically significant differences in the control effect, spray deposition, initial residues, and half‐life (t1/2) were subsequently observed with different application methods, suggesting that the application method plays a key role in pesticide availability and control efficiency. The differences in control efficiency and pesticide residues between application methods were thought to be related to droplet size, droplet distribution, and penetrability. Unmanned aerial vehicle and mister sprayers were found to effectively increase the control efficacy of 48% phenamacril · tebuconazole SC in terms of FHB control and mycotoxin concentrations, as well as enhancing pesticide availability. CONCLUSION These findings are of theoretical and practical value for the scientific application of pesticides in wheat, helping to enhance pesticide utilization while reducing harmful residues. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry Unmanned aerial vehicle spraying of pesticide improved pesticide effectiveness by improving control efficiency and reducing pesticide loss and residue, as well being compatible with environmental quality.