Which times of day are generally best for making spray applications?

The best times for making spray applications are during the late evening and early morning. This choice is favored due to several key factors that enhance the effectiveness and safety of pesticide applications.

During these times, temperatures are generally cooler and humidity levels are higher, which helps to reduce the risk of evaporation that can lead to pesticide drift. Cool temperatures help maintain the stability of the chemicals being applied, ensuring that they remain effective as intended without the problem of rapid degradation. Additionally, there tends to be less wind during these hours, which minimizes the likelihood of spray drift onto non-target areas, thus protecting sensitive plants, wildlife, and water sources.

Making applications in the middle of the day, when the sun is at its highest, can lead to increased evaporation and potential plant injury due to heat stress. Afternoon hours may also encounter higher winds and temperatures, further complicating the application process. The idea of limiting spray applications to weekends is impractical, as it restricts the timing to just two days, overlooking the ideal conditions present in the early morning and late evening on any day of the week.

Overall, choosing late evening and early morning for spray applications optimizes safety, efficacy, and environmental protection, making it the preferred option for private applicators.