Optimizing Drone Spraying in Mango Orchards with Ultra-Low-Volume Nozzle Configurations for Sustainable Agriculture in Northern India

Mango cultivation in Northern India is crucial for the agricultural sector but faces significant challenges due to complex tree canopy structures, which hinder efficient and uniform application of agricultural treatments. This study explores the use of drone spraying technology with Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) nozzles to overcome these challenges, aiming to enhance resource efficiency and agricultural sustainability.

This research was conducted in mango orchards during the June–August 2024 growing season (during the mango flowering and early fruit-setting phase), utilizing two different types of ULV nozzles: TeeJet® 110° XR and HYPRO® ULV. These nozzles were systematically tested to assess their spray coverage and droplet penetration capabilities across various canopy layers—upper, middle, and lower. The methodology involved detailed evaluations under varying environmental conditions to measure the effectiveness of each nozzle in delivering dye, simulating the application of agrochemicals. The specific parameters measured included spray coverage area and droplet size distribution, assessed under different environmental conditions, including wind speed and humidity. The initial results highlighted the TeeJet® nozzle's superior performance in penetrating the upper and middle canopy layers, whereas the HYPRO® nozzle showed enhanced effectiveness in reaching the lower canopy. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, revealed significant differences in spray distribution patterns based on nozzle type and canopy layer (p<0.05). Post-hoc tests identified the optimal configurations for maximizing coverage and minimizing waste.

These findings highlight the importance of customized drone spraying strategies in modern agriculture. By selecting the appropriate nozzle types and configurations, farmers can significantly improve the precision of pesticide applications, reduce resource wastage, and mitigate environmental impacts. These insights are crucial for developing drone spraying protocols that can adapt to the specific physical and environmental contours of mango orchards. This study not only contributes to the field of precision agriculture, but also supports the development of sustainable farming practices that can be adapted to other crops and regions facing similar challenges.