What technique is recommended to minimize off-target drift during pesticide application?

Using the largest droplets practical to ensure coverage is a recommended technique because larger droplets are less susceptible to drift caused by wind. Drift occurs when lighter particles become airborne and can be carried away from the intended application area by environmental factors such as wind. By utilizing larger droplets, the force of gravity helps to keep the pesticide closer to the target area, thereby reducing the likelihood of off-target movement.

This approach also ensures that the pesticide effectively penetrates the target vegetation or pest while still maintaining enough volume to minimize evaporation and degradation. In contrast, smaller droplet sizes create a finer mist that can easily be lifted by air currents, increasing the risk of drift and reducing the effectiveness of the application. Therefore, prioritizing larger droplet sizes is essential for effective and responsible pesticide application.