Key points

• Optical spot spraying technology (OSST) has the ability to reduce the amount of chemical applied by more than 70 per cent when compared to a ‘blanket spray’ with a conventional boom

• Where approved on the label or by APVMA permits, these systems can be used at a ‘spot-spray’ rate (litres of product per 100 litres of water) for a range of products

• Optical spot sprayers are increasingly being used to target harder-to-kill weeds in fallow and also under shielded sprayers in some cropping situations

• As with any decision about which equipment to purchase, the operator should always take into account the support they will receive from the manufacturer and the dealer