Drone Spraying – Vineyard Fungicide Application

Project Overview

Treasury Wine Estates approached Erizon to provide the aerial application of a fungicide treatment using our agricultural drone equipment.

In the wake of recent heavy rainfall, it was essential to protect grapevines with pre-infection (protectant) fungicides to ensure that downy mildew zoospores do not enter green vine tissue. Traditionally, this treatment is carried out using specialized tractor boom spraying equipment. As large tractors of this type are prone to becoming stuck in mud and causing soil compaction, the use of drones for fungicide spraying has become increasingly popular due to their ability to reach difficult locations. As a result of pre-programmed missions, drones provide consistent coverage over difficult terrain.

Chosen Solution

Fungicide supplied by the client.

Equipment used

Scope

The fungicide application was carried out over two separate missions. The first mission of 32.5 Ha was completed over a two day period. Weather became an issue with stormy skies forcing the team to wait until ideal conditions returned before completing the remaining 25 ha

The application was provided at a rate of 100litres per hectare