PPFS-AG-C-11: Drone Fungicide Applications in Corn

Ricky Arnett, Pat Hardesty, Nick Roy, Kiersten Wise | Mar. 12, 2021 (New)

Foliar fungicide applications occur commonly in corn to manage foliar diseases such as gray leaf spot. University of Kentucky research indicates that the most effective application timing for both foliar disease control and yield benefits is at tasseling/early silking (VT/R1). Because of the height of corn at this growth stage, these applications are typically applied aerially, with fixed wing or helicopter aircraft. However, many Kentucky fields are small, surrounded by trees or other obstacles to aircraft, meaning that fungicide application is not an option in these areas.

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PPA-50: Drone Fungicide Applications in Corn

Ricky Arnett, Pat Hardesty, Nick Roy, Kiersten Wise | Mar. 5, 2021 (New)

Drone technology has improved in recent years and has also become more accessible. In Kentucky, commercial drone fungicide application is now an option in several areas. Drones specifically designed to apply products can potentially be used to apply fungicide in fields that are not accessible to other aircraft. This publication describes experiments to determine if drone fungicide applications can reduce foliar diseases in corn and discusses factors to consider when using drone technology to apply fungicides.