PRoduct Handling

Jar Testing

The jar test is the most practical way to determine the compatibility of a proposed product tank mix. We strongly suggest that a jar test be done prior to mixing FBS' products with non-FBS products. Sometimes pesticides may not mix well or a fluid fertilizer or liquid nitrogen may be the desired carrier. In addition, minor differences in the products can affect compatibility. Because of variance in pH, salt concentration or temperature, every batch of fluid fertilizer or liquid nitrogen should be tested for compatibility. Fungicides should never be mixed with fertilizers.

Materials Needed

• Two one-quart jars with lids, one marked with “agent,” one unmarked
• Teaspoons to measure out product
• Fluid fertilizer, liquid nitrogen or water that will be used as base
• The pesticides to be used
• A compatibility agent

Pesticide Formulation            Rate/Acre        Teaspoons to Add
WP or DF   
                                                          1 lb                           1.5
                                                          2 lb                           3.0
                                                          3 lb                           4.5
                                                          4 lb                           6.0
EC, F, L, or S  
                                                          1 pt                           0.5
                                                          1 qt                           1.0
                                                          2 qt                           2.0
                                                          4 qt                           4.0

Conducting the Test 

• Add 1 pint of the fluid fertilizer or liquid nitrogen to each quart jar. If the carrier is not a fluid fertilizer, add 1 pint of the water that will be used.
• To the jar marked “agent,” add ¼ teaspoon of compatibility agent. Shake gently.
• Add the proper amount of pesticides to each jar. Shake gently.
• Let the jars sit for 5 minutes. Check for any flakes, sludge, gel or other precipitants. Also look for any separation, layering or small oil particles.
• If incompatibility appears in the unmarked jar, but not in the jar labeled “agent,” use a compatibility agent.
• If incompatibility appears in the jar labeled “agent,” the product combination should not be used.

If separate layers form after 30 minutes, but can be re-suspended by shaking, using sprayer agitation will make field application possible.

The following signs indicate that an undesirable reaction has taken place and that this mixture is most likely incompatible:

• Gelling or thickening
• Flake or crystal formation
• Violent bubbling or heating
• Extreme color changes

Tank Mixing

Proper tank mixing ensures that products are utilized as designed, meaning better solubility, better dispersion, and better efficacy. Ultimately, this means stronger, healthier, more stress resistant crops and higher yields.

Problems can occur as a result of insufficient tank mixing or the introduction of incompatible products, improper spraying practices, environmental conditions, water quality problems, or product misuse.

Consult product labels for more specific details.

Key Factors in Proper Tank Mixing to Minimize Risks

• pH
  Modify as necessary.
• Water Components
  Use water from the best source possible. A water test is recommended along with a jar test.
• Temperature
  Use warm water if available especially on phosphorous products.
• Concentration factor
  Add/mix in most diluted form possible.
• Agitation
  Good agitation is a must. Do not stop agitation.
• Non-FBS Products
  Try to use compatible products by avoiding chelated micronutrient solubles and other less expensive nutrient forms.
• Tank Cleanliness
  Keep tank/system clean.
• Order of Addition
  When mixing compatible pesticides, the order in which they should be added to the tank varies with the formulations. The proper order should be wettable powders, water-dispersible granules, water-dispersible liquids, emulsifiable concentrates, granules, and water soluble liquids, with agitation after each addition.