Unlocking Agricultural Innovation: How Targeted Spray Technology is Revolutionizing Crop Management

Topic was addressed in January 15 “Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops!” program

PUBLISHED ON January 21, 2025

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Are you interested in targeted spray technology? This innovative system was the focus of discussion on the January 15 episode of “Strategic Farming: Let’s Talk Crops!” Dr. Rodrigo Werle from the University of Wisconsin-Madison joined Ryan Miller from UMN Extension to share insights on how this technology can help save costs.

What is targeted spray technology?

Targeted spray technology uses advanced systems to apply herbicides precisely where needed. While there is an initial cost, the goal is to save money and improve efficiency. Dr. Werle’s team has been studying the “One Smart Spray” system in Brazil and the “See & Spray” system by John Deere in the U.S. Many companies are exploring this cutting-edge technology.

Some systems can spot a green weed in an empty field. This is called green-on-brown spraying. For our area, systems that can identify weeds among growing crops (green-on-green applications) could be even more effective.

These sprayers have cameras that take pictures as they move through fields. Using artificial intelligence, they can find crop rows. When they detect green between the rows, the nozzles spray. They can turn on and off, allowing for precise application. Dr. Werle believes this will be standard practice in the future, with premium systems featuring two tanks for different spraying needs.

These advanced systems also create maps showing where the herbicides were applied and where they were not. They can reveal weed distribution in fields, helping farmers make informed decisions for future plantings.

A strong early-season soil residual program is crucial

In experiments focused on waterhemp, Dr. Werle’s team found substantial savings in herbicide use—70 to 76%—when weed pressure was low. However, this dropped to about 2% when weed pressure was high. It’s essential to have a solid soil residual herbicide plan because targeted technology works best where weed infestations are low. When infestations are high, the system behaves like a standard broadcast application.

Interestingly, adding another soil residual herbicide during post-application doesn’t always help if a strong PRE residual was applied at planting. Dr. Werle observed that farmers often wait too long to make POST applications, which can reduce the effectiveness of the soil residual herbicides.

Economics of the system

Dr. Werle explained how improving the PRE program combined with effective POST methods can be cost-effective. There is a fee of about $5 per acre for using the John Deere system when no herbicide is sprayed. If your herbicide costs are much higher, the savings can be significant in fields with low weed populations.

Watch out for spray drift

In some systems, only one nozzle activates when a weed is detected. If it’s windy, this can lead to drift. When broadcasting, overlapping spray patterns help, so it’s better to activate multiple nozzles with targeted technology for better coverage.

Going slower during POST applications—ideally around 12 mph—can also improve precision. This reduces boom bounce, ensuring more accurate application and coverage.

Need for complexity in weed management

As weeds like waterhemp become more resistant, farmers must diversify their weed management approaches. A solid PRE program is essential. Strategies such as cover cropping and narrow-row planting can enhance effectiveness. A comprehensive foliar program also contributes to success.

Final thoughts

This discussion on targeted spray technology is part of a larger effort by the University of Minnesota to support farmers. For more insights, you can find a recording of the session online.

–Liz Stahl, UMN Extension