Enhancing Agricultural Practices with Efficient Herbicide and Fertiliser Application by Helicopter

In modern agriculture, effective weed management and precise application of fertilisers are crucial for optimising crop yields and ensuring sustainable farming practices. Helicopter-based aerial agrichemical application offers significant advantages, especially in regions with challenging terrains or extensive fields.

Interestingly, New Zealand holds a pioneering place in the history of aerial application. In 1906, John Clervaux Chaytor floated above his Marlborough sheep farm in a hot air balloon, throwing fistfuls of grass seed into the air. This early form of aerial seeding paved the way for modern techniques that utilise helicopters for spraying.

Helicopter application streamlines the process for farmers, saving time by eliminating the need to organise chemicals, relocate livestock, or worry about ground-based applicators causing damage. This efficient method reduces spraying time from days to hours.

We spoke with Allan from Heliworx Waikato to explore the advantages of using helicopters for agrichemical and fertiliser applications. Contrary to common beliefs, helicopter spraying can be cost-effective due to its speed and efficiency, offering a ‘one-stop-shop’ experience with all necessary equipment on site.

Some advantages of using helicopters over ground vehicles include:
1. Better Coverage, especially important in forestry spraying.
2. No trampling of crops.
3. Advanced GPS Technology for accuracy and precision.  
4. The down wash from the rotor blade pushes the product deep into the canopy.
5. The tip vertices that come off the rotor blades allow for product distribution to the underside of the leaves (especially important with insecticides, aphids in particular).
6. The cost is incredibly comparable to ground spraying when you factor in the absence of damaged crops.
7. No ruts are made in the fields (which can occur with ground sprayers).
8. Fast Application in large areas.
9. Competitive chemical rates.
10. Expert weather knowledge knowing how to find those small weather windows.

A typical experience with a helicopter service is straightforward and efficient. Farmers can book jobs via text, call, or email. After discussing needs, the pilot schedules the job based on weather conditions. Farmers provide a map or meet the pilot on-site for a reconnaissance flight to identify hazards. While this is happening the ground support person will have set up the ground equipment to suck water from your water source and pump into the helicopter spray tank. Once you have shown the pilot the application area, your job is done. Sit back and watch the weeds die.

Considering these benefits, helicopter aerial spraying emerges as a compelling option for farmers looking to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in agrichemical applications. It’s a strategy worth considering! 

Thanks to Allan and Heliworx Waikato for the advice and photos. If you need any more detailed information on aerial spraying by helicopter feel free to give Allan a call on 027 491 2443 or email him at allan@heliworx.co.nz