One thing I find myself constantly reminding applicators throughout the year to do is check the pH of their spray solution. Though you should always read the label or check with the manufacturer, many turf products will work better in a neutral to slightly acidic pH range. Believe it or not this can make a difference, especially if it takes several hours to spray out one tank. For those of you who think that because you use city water you’re okay, THINK AGAIN! Check it and I’ll bet you’ll find out it has a pH of greater than 8.0.
So, how do you check pH? The easiest way is to get a simple pH meter. There are several on the market with prices starting around $65 and going up from there. These can be purchased online or at a garden supply store. If this is too costly stop into your pool supply store - they can give you a variety of low tech and low cost items for checking pH. This year, Cleary has supplied free pH testing kits (on top of the Cleary Reward Card) to qualified end users of the Early Take Program.
In addition to giving that sprayer a thorough cleaning (that includes all the hoses and the flow meter), send your spray control unit out to be recalibrated (this should be done at the start of every season and periodically throughout the year). Take some time to consider how pH can affect your applications and what steps you can take to maximize your benefits.
© Cleary Chemical 2008