Which type of sprayer utilizes both water and air for disease and insect control?

The airblast sprayer is designed to combine both water and air to effectively control diseases and insects on plants. This type of sprayer utilizes a high-velocity air stream generated by fans to atomize the liquid herbicide or pesticide mixture. The air not only helps to disperse the liquid evenly but also enhances penetration into the foliage, reaching areas that may be difficult to access with other types of sprayers. This method is particularly advantageous in dense canopies or where thorough coverage is essential for effective pest and disease management.

In contrast, granular applicators apply solid formulations of pesticides or herbicides and do not utilize liquid or air, limiting their effectiveness for applications requiring wetting or thorough distribution. Manual sprayers, while useful for small-scale applications, typically rely on hand-pumped pressure and do not incorporate air to the extent required for more efficient aerial distribution. Hydraulic sprayers primarily use liquid pressure to deliver herbicides or pesticides but do not employ air in their operation, which can lead to less optimal coverage compared to an airblast approach.