Don's Spray Tips
If you need guidance on any aspect of spray application, give Don a call on 0448 511 771.
If your sprayer isn’t performing as it should, or you’re seeing disease issues in the field, simple checks can often uncover the cause - whether it’s calibration, coverage, or setup.
Don can help with:
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spray application rates and calibration
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improving canopy coverage and penetration
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spraying under trees or vines
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organic spray application
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selecting and setting up spray equipment
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understanding control systems and available technology
With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know what’s worth investing in. Don provides practical advice based on decades of hands-on experience.
If you’re just starting out, or looking to improve your current setup, get in touch. Hortspray offers a no obligation 15 minute consultation for free.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is my spray coverage not working properly? Poor spray coverage is one of the most common issues growers face — and it’s usually caused by a combination of factors rather than just one problem. The most common causes include incorrect nozzle selection, poor spray distribution into the canopy – especially in taller trees, worn or blocked nozzles, misunderstanding of dilute vs concentrate application and incorrect travel speed. In orchards and vineyards, canopy density and air movement also play a big role in whether spray is reaching the target. Often, growers assume they’re getting good coverage because the sprayer is running well — but without proper testing (such as using water-sensitive paper to check droplet deposition), it’s very easy to miss areas within the canopy. Working with Don can identify exactly what’s limiting your spray performance. From there a simple plan will often result in significant improvement.
2. Why isn’t my sprayer working properly, and how do I fix it? When a sprayer isn’t performing as it should, the issue is often mechanical, but it can also be related to setup or maintenance. Common problems include a buildup of spray deposits in hoses, fittings and nozzle bodies, worn pumps, blocked filters, leaking hoses, faulty regulators, or nozzles that are damaged or well overdue for replacement. Even small faults can have a big impact on spray quality and consistency. Checking filters, replacing worn parts, and ensuring the system is clean and functioning correctly will prevent most issues before they affect your spray results. Don can help diagnose sprayer issues and recommend the right parts or adjustments to get your equipment performing properly again.
3. What technology can improve my spray results? New technology is playing an increasing role in improving spray efficiency, coverage, and consistency — but it’s important to focus on tools that deliver practical results on farm. Some of the most useful technologies include: spray rate controllers for accurate application; sensors and mapping tools for variable rate spraying; improved nozzle designs for better droplet control; air-assisted systems to improve canopy penetration. However, technology works best when the fundamentals are right. Even the most advanced system won’t deliver good results if the sprayer isn’t calibrated properly or the setup isn’t suited to the crop. The key is finding the right balance between proven spray principles and new technology that adds value to your operation. Don works with growers and advisors to identify practical AgTech solutions that improve outcomes without overcomplicating the system.
4. Does HortSpray work with agronomists and industry advisors? Yes. Don regularly works with agronomists, consultants, chemical companies and industry advisors across a range of horticultural sectors. Spray application is a critical part of achieving good crop outcomes, and working collaboratively ensures that spray programs are not only well-designed, but also applied effectively in the field. This can include supporting advisors with spray application knowledge; assisting with troubleshooting coverage or performance issues; delivering workshops or training sessions; helping validate that spray programs are being applied correctly. Don’s practical, on-farm experience complements advisory work by focusing on how spray recommendations are actually implemented. If you’re working with growers and want to improve spray outcomes, Don is available to support your clients or projects.
5. How can I improve my spray application on farm? Improving spray application isn’t about one single change — it’s about getting a number of key factors working together. The biggest areas to focus on are: ensuring the sprayer can meet the needs of your crop; correct sprayer calibration and application rate; choosing the right nozzle type and size to match the canopy; operating at the right pressure and travel speed; achieving good canopy penetration and droplet deposition; regularly checking and maintaining equipment. Small adjustments in these areas can lead to significant improvements in coverage, efficiency, and overall spray effectiveness. Many growers see better results simply by reviewing their setup and making targeted changes, rather than investing in new equipment straight away. Don offers workshops and on-farm support to help growers understand their spray systems and make practical improvements that deliver results.
Video Resources
Don's Thought Leadership Pieces on LinkedIn
2025
Don presents on his trip to Far North Queensland, where the farmers he interacts with experience up to a 20% improvement in their spraying operations, thanks to a bit of Hortspray know-how.
Don gives a sneak peek into a workshop he runs for the Department of Primary Industries in Dareton, NSW.
2023
Don showcases some of the work he and some okra and mango farmers in the Northern Territory have been doing.
2022
Don provides a short update on some research he's been conducting with industry associates.
2021 (Facebook)
Don presents his first HortSpray piece to camera, details what work Hortspray has been engaging with and an outlook on the year to come.
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HortSpray helps with...
Spray coverage
Safety and mixing
Nozzle selection
Get in Touch
If any of the advice above that Don offers appeals to you, or you've noticed a gap in your operation you think that Don could help address, please get in touch.
