Several incidences of the degradation of sprayer components have been reported in the UK over the past week, where the tank mix applied has included the fungicide active Inatreq.

Corteva Agriscience, the chemical company that developed the active, has received a number of reports of sprayer damage, which comes at the time of year when farmers are busy spraying cereal crops at the T2 timing.

The firm is currently undertaking a thorough investigation into these reports – which have specifically focused on nozzle O-rings and nozzle diaphragms – and will update advice as more information becomes available.

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With limited information to date and in the absence of any conclusive link to their products, the company has advised the following actions to mitigate possible issues:

• Increase water volume to as near 200litres/ha as practical
• Reduce the number of products in any tank mix

In addition, it is important to follow label instructions and observe good agricultural practice:

• Flush spray lines regularly with clean water at least once per day and ideally at breaks
• Use up spray solutions on the day of mixing
• Do not leave spray solutions in sprayers overnight
• Clean sprayers thoroughly with water and detergent after use
• Check jets and filters regularly for damage and blockages
• Always use appropriate PPE in accordance with the product labels.
• Always use the level of protection required for the most hazardous product.