How to rinse a sprayer after using herbicide

A sprayer is one of the must-have devices for a gardener or land owner who cares about the condition of the plants on their site. Application of various preventative agents using such a device allows you to effectively combat insect pests. One of the important measures when operating a sprayer is its high-quality rinsing, which allows you to get rid of pesticides and herbicides remaining after treatment. Let's figure out how to properly carry out this procedure.

Emptying the sprayer

Before rinsing device After use, its reservoir must be properly emptied. Of course, you need to try to prepare the mixture in such a quantity that it is completely consumed, because you cannot pour it anywhere. The way out of the situation when there is a spray solution left is to reuse it - almost all types of herbicides are allowed to be sprayed a second time.

Do not pour residue from the sprayer onto the grass, near flowers and plants, or near water sources. The sewer system is not suitable for this either. Alternatively, you can share the leftovers with your neighbors.

If you urgently need to get rid of the diluted herbicide, you should pour it into a plastic or glass container and close it tightly, and then take it to a specialized organization for disposal.

How and with what to rinse the sprayer: recommendations

First of all, you should read the information on the pesticide packaging. Depending on the chemical used by the manufacturer, there may be specific recommendations for cleaning the tank itself and the elements.

Ammonia is suitable for rinsing after most herbicides. The process looks like this:

• the sprayer is filled with boiling water;
• sprayed near the place where the treatment was carried out;
• An ammonia solution is prepared - 30 ml of the substance per 4 liters of water;
• poured into the tank;
• the mixing mechanism is turned on for 15 minutes;
• the solution is sprayed (at least three times to rinse the nozzle);
• Rinse with clean water (do not pour into drains or water sources).

Be sure to also pressure wash the external parts of the device.

Ammonia is effective for most herbicides, but not all. For specific preparations, a bleach solution, powdered detergent, or kerosene solution are better suited. Liquid dish soap also works well, especially for decontaminating the sprayer from petroleum-based chemicals.

When using the above products, it is recommended to leave the cleaning solution overnight. In this case, the reservoir should be approximately half filled.

The next day, the contents are sprayed until completely empty. Hot water is poured into the container and sprayed again. This should be done away from sources of water, out of the reach of children and animals.

For more thorough cleaning, it is recommended to dismantle and wash all parts - extend the hose, tube and nozzle. Warm soapy water is used, or an old toothbrush can be used to clean small crevices.

There are also commercial products available that are specifically designed for cleaning tanks. You just need to select a herbicide for a specific type.

It is important

During the cleaning process, be sure to wear protective clothing and chemical-resistant gloves.

The sprayer must be washed after each use. Residues from used substances accumulate over time and can make cleaning difficult.