Fertilizer Dusters and Sprayers Maintenance

• A season-long approach is the best approach to help prevent problems in gardens and lawns.
• Always follow manufacturers directions for mixing, use and cleaning exactly.
• Never use on a windy day when wind drift could carry the chemical into areas where it may cause damage.
• Spraying during excessive heat may cause the material to evaporate quickly.
• Always wear protective clothing, including eye protection and gloves while spraying.
• Wash the sprayer thoroughly afterwards.
• Never fill the tank of a compression sprayer more than 3/4 full, or to the spot indicated on the tank.
• Never store compression sprayers in the sun or near a heat source.

• Always empty and clean the sprayer after each use. Corrosions results when chemical solutions are left in sprayers. Following a spray job, the user should spray away all the liquid or return the material to the original container if the pesticide or herbicide is undiluted.
• Dissolve powder first to prevent clogging. Dust, sand, soil or undissolved particles of powdered chemicals can clog nozzles, lines and damage seals. To avoid it, suggest dissolving dry powder in a small amount of water before putting it in the sprayer and adding the recommended amount of water.
• Clean the nozzle thoroughly to correct a clogged nozzle. If a nozzle is clogged, clean it with a toothpick or broom straw, metal or wire tools can damage the nozzle opening. If this fails, flush and reverse flush with clear water until the obstacle is cleared.
• Clean the sprayer with detergent or baking soda to prevent cross contamination after each use. Flush away water until sprayer is completely empty. Air-dry the sprayer and store in a dry place.
• Use maintenance kits to make minor repairs. Replaceable parts include the hose, discharge valve, nozzle and o-ring.

Courtesy of NRHA.org.

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