Tree Row Volume (TRV) – Optimising spray application
And just like that Spring is here. Buds are breaking, covers are going on and flowering is just a short month away when chemical thinning decisions will need to be made. Optimising spray application that ensures adequate coverage at the correct dose to get the right result is crucial to produce high volumes of export quality apples & pears.
A useful measure to help optimise the spray program is the Tree Row Volume (TRV). TRV measures the theoretical volume occupied by a tree’s canopy and the space between the trees in a row. It is calculated using the formula: TRV = Tree Height (m) x Tree Width (m) x Between-row Distance (m).
TRV is to serve as a guide, so you are not applying more chemical than is needed to achieve acceptable pest control. TRV is especially important on higher tree density production systems. Without this measure of canopy volume, it is far too easy to over spray and overdose the trees.
TRV helps to optimise spray applications and chemical dosage, improve spray efficiency, whilst controlling costs, and mitigating the impact on the environment.
Remember, however that the TRV is used to calculate the theoretical application rates and that the most accurate TRV measurement will not compensate for poor sprayer set-up, un-calibrated units, poor coverage, timing, choice of chemical, weather etc…
TRV measurements do provide objective insights of your canopy which can only lead to better management decisions and productivity outcomes.
Dean Rainham
Horticultural Consultant
