Drone-Based Spraying Systems for Tree Fruit Orchards in the Northeast

Commodities

• Fruits: apples, peaches, pears, plums

Practices

• Crop Production: application rate management
• Education and Training: demonstration, on-farm/ranch research, participatory research
• Energy: energy conservation/efficiency

Project Focus

The project addresses the growing interest among tree fruit growers in Pennsylvania and the Northeast in adopting drone-based spraying systems for high-density apple and peach orchards. Pennsylvania ranks among the top producers of apples in the U.S., with over 14 million bushels harvested annually. Many farmers are seeking alternatives to their traditional aging air-blast sprayers, which often experience frequent breakdowns and inefficiencies. A 2024 survey of 63 growers revealed that 95% were eager to explore drone spraying technology. Growers highlighted the ability of drones to spray during nighttime conditions, offering advantages such as reduced wind speeds and lower risk to pollinators. Additionally, drone spraying is seen as a more viable option for irregularly shaped and steep orchard sites, which are less accessible to traditional equipment. Despite the potential benefits, farmers have expressed concerns about optimal water volumes, spray coverage, and the efficacy of plant growth regulators applied with drones. These regulators, typically applied with higher water volumes, are crucial for managing crop loads in orchards. Farmers also seek more information on maintenance, troubleshooting, and the cost-effectiveness of drone technology. This project aims to bridge these knowledge gaps and support growers with a wide range of perspectives.

Solution and Approach

The project proposes a series of field trials and demonstrations to optimize drone-based spraying systems for high-density fruit orchards. These trials will focus on determining appropriate water volumes, flight parameters, and the efficacy of plant growth regulators applied with low water volumes. A side-by-side comparison of drone spraying with traditional air-blast sprayers will provide critical data on spray coverage and economic viability. The research will result in best-practice guidelines for drone applications, helping farmers adopt this technology while reducing chemical use, labor costs, and environmental impact. To engage the farming community, the project will involve farmers directly in research and demonstration efforts. Eight growers across Pennsylvania will host on-farm demonstrations, providing real-world insights into the technology's effectiveness. Outreach efforts will include workshops, field days, webinars, and video tutorials. Research findings will be shared through industry publications, presentations at key conferences, and local meetings, reaching over 1,000 growers in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland. By addressing farmers' concerns and providing accessible, practical solutions, the project aims to promote widespread adoption of drone-based spraying technology, leading to more efficient, sustainable, and economically viable fruit production in the Northeast.

• Conduct trials on drone-based spraying systems in Northeast tree fruit orchards, with a specific focus on optimizing spray techniques for high-density apple and peach systems. This includes assessing coverage efficiency, determining the appropriate water quantity, and evaluating the effects of plant growth regulator sprays with low water volumes.
• Generate new knowledge on best practices for drone applications in tree fruit orchards, addressing key challenges and providing clear guidelines.
• Document drone sprayer benefits such as reduced chemical and water use, and lower operational costs through more efficient and precise application methods, leading to improved environmental and financial outcomes.