What material is recommended to check nozzle discharge or calibrate a sprayer?

When calibrating a sprayer or checking nozzle discharge, using water is recommended due to its properties that closely mimic liquid fertilizers and pesticides in terms of density and viscosity, making it easier to obtain accurate measurements. Water is readily available, inexpensive, and poses minimal environmental and safety risks during the calibration process.

Using water ensures that you can observe how the sprayer functions without the complications that might arise from other substances. It allows for easy cleanup, and you can accurately assess the sprayer's performance in terms of coverage and application rates, which is vital when switching to the actual pesticides or fertilizers later. This method provides a reliable baseline for calibrating spray equipment to ensure that the right amount of product is applied effectively to the target area.