Fundecitrus launches application to help calculate spraying method

The Defense Fund of Citrus (Fundecitrus) has created an application to help citrus growers ensure an efficient and economic spraying system. The Integrated Spraying System of Fundecitrus (SPIF) allows them to calculate the application volume and dosage of the product according to the plant’s size. Besides this, it provides guidance on adjustments to equipment used for spraying.

The system was based on 10 years of research results from Fundecitrus' technology application for the false spider smite, citrus black spot, citrus canker, colletotrichum, and psyllidae. The goal of the system is to provide these results in a practical way that can be applied in the field and to help ensure the correct volume of spraying.

According to Fundecitrus researcher Marcelo Scapin, the information allows disease control and plague management in citrus crops without unnecessary waste. Further, the adequate regulation of spraying contributes to fewer losses and increases the operational capacity of the equipment. “The system will ensure adequate volumes and application dosage, regulate the equipment correctly, and provide savings to those who spray above-average volumes,” Scapin noted.

With the application, water can be reduced by up to 70% in the control of psyllidae, 60% for colletotrichum, 30% for citrus leprosis, and between 40% and 50% for the black spot. “The SPIF is one way of taking to citrus growers the knowledge generated by research in a practical and accessible way,” stated Scapin.

The system is available free of charge as a desktop version (offline) and can also be accessed on the Fundecitrus website. A mobile version will soon be launched and will be available for Android, iOS, and Windows systems.