In the absence of methyl bromide, growers have tried many different alternative products and application methods to control the main pests in crops. Chemical treatment by drip irrigation tape is a method that can be used to tackle certain pests.

The phrase “not to see and not to worry” may apply to drip irrigation systems under plastic-covered beds. However, keeping drip irrigation tapes up for maintenance can help ensure proper irrigation and chemical treatment during the crop cycle.

Growers should consistently monitor drip irrigation performance, looking for pressure drops, system leaks, properly calibrated and blocked transmitters. Clogged transmitters are one of the more common reasons that affect drip irrigation applications. It may be caused by gravel, bacteria and algae, chemical scale, or a combination of all these factors.

Irrigation water sources have an important impact on leak stoppage. According to the UF/IFAS report, algae and bacterial growth are the main problems associated with surface water. If not filtered properly, surface water may also contain moss and other organic debris. Groundwater may contain high concentrations of minerals, which can cause clogging of scale.

As it is prone to clogging, it is recommended that growers continue to monitor the filter equipment for clogging and clean it as needed. This is especially important before any chemical injection.

It is recommended to inject acid, chlorine or other commercial water treatment chemicals to remove chemical particles or organic matter. In a small volume system, clean the drip tube and transmitter to prevent clogging.

After completing the chemical injection, it is important to flush the line. Many chemicals, especially some commonly injected fumigants, can damage the PVC pipeline if they remain in the system after the injection cycle is complete. The irrigation operator must run the system long enough after the chemical is injected to completely remove the injected chemical from the system with clean water.

UF/IFAS also recommends that growers develop a maintenance plan to check the mechanical parts of the system and drip irrigation lines. Over time, some chemical injections can cause system components to degrade, requiring maintenance or replacement.

Regularly record the flow and pressure delivered by the pump to ensure normal operation. Keep records of these inspections at least once every two weeks. If you observe a large deviation from the normal operating flow and pressure, please consult a maintenance expert.

The key to successful chemistry is to continuously monitor system performance and take necessary corrective actions when needed. This will not only improve chemical treatment performance, but will also extend the service life of irrigation equipment and components.

♦ Learn more about injection troubleshooting and buffer considerations ♦

During the chemical injection, a qualified operator should always be present. Below are some items to look for during the application process.

For most growers, the optimal buffer zone is the buffer zone suitable for the property he or she controls through ownership or lease.

"When you keep the buffer on your own property, this may be the best case," said Dow AgroScience Telone expert Jerry Nance. "In most cases, you can reserve the buffer zone by dividing the field into different application areas. The first area you want to view is the most difficult area in the buffer zone. Once you figure out that area, The rest will usually be in place."

To help minimize the buffer zone and optimize employee safety, more and more growers are using drip irrigation applications.

This article was sponsored by Telone.

Frank Giles is the former editor of Florida Growers and Cotton Growers Magazine, both of which are Meister Media Worldwide publications. View all author stories here.

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