The term Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) (spraying) is used in the context of pesticide application.

Ultra-low volume application of pesticides has been defined as spraying at a Volume Application Rate (VAR) of les than 5 L/ha for field crops or les than 50 L/ha for tree/bush crops¹. VARs of 0.25 - 2 l/ha are typical for aerial ULV application to forest or migratory pests.

ULV spraying is a well-established spraying technique² and remains the standard method of locust control with pesticides and is also widely used by cotton farmers in central-southern and western Africa. It has also been used in massive aerial spraying campaigns against disease vectors such as the tse-tse fly.

A major benefit of ULV application is high work rate (i.e. hectares can be treated in one day). It is a good option if all (or some) of these conditions apply:

• large area of land to treat
• rapid response required
• little or no water for making pesticide tank mixtures
• logistical problems for supplies
• difficult terrain: poor access to target site

See also

• ULV spraying equipment
• aerial spraying
• locust control
• pesticide application

References

1. ^ Matthews, G.A. (2000) Pesticide Application Methods 3rd Edition. Blackwell Science, Oxford. 432 pages.
2. ^ Maas, W. (1971) ULV Application and Formulation Techniques. NV Philips Gloeilampenfabrieken, Eindhoven, NL. 165 pages.