What triggers pesticide drift?

Pesticide drift is primarily influenced by the size of the droplets produced during application. When droplets are smaller than 150-200 microns, they are more susceptible to being carried away by wind, air currents, or temperature differences, which can result in off-target movement of the pesticide. Smaller droplets have a larger surface area relative to their volume, which increases their ability to evaporate and be blown off course. This is crucial for applicators to understand, as managing droplet size is key to minimizing drift and ensuring that pesticides are applied effectively and safely.

The other factors listed, such as relative humidity and wind speeds, can influence the behavior of pesticides but do not primarily trigger drift. High relative humidity can actually help to reduce drift by making droplet evaporation less likely, while low wind speeds can contribute to more controlled pesticide application and less drift. On the other hand, large droplets are less likely to drift at all because they fall quickly to the ground due to gravity, making them more effective in staying on the intended target area. Understanding the dynamics of droplet size and drift is essential for anyone working with pesticides to ensure environmental protection and compliance with regulations.