Choosing the Best Pull Behind Sprayer For 5 Acres ensures efficient coverage, reduces chemical waste, and saves valuable time.Maintaining five acres of land is a rewarding endeavor, but managing weeds, fertilization, and pest control can be a frustrating challenge.
Without the right equipment, tasks like spraying herbicides or fertilizers can be time-consuming and inefficient.5 Acres Pull-behind sprayers offer a practical solution, making these tasks faster, more precise, and less labor-intensive.
To keep your land healthy, productive, and visually appealing, you need a high-quality pull-behind sprayer that fits the size and layout of your property. There are several options available, ranging from small, maneuverable units to larger sprayers with wide booms and high-capacity tanks.
This article explores the 10 best pull-behind sprayers for 5 acres, providing detailed reviews of each model, including key features, advantages, potential drawbacks, and practical usage tips. Each sprayer is explained in depth with structured formatting for easy reading and informed decision-making.
Top 10 Best Pull Behind Sprayer For 5 Acres
1. NorthStar Pull-Behind Sprayer – Best Overall
The NorthStar Pull-Behind Sprayer consistently ranks as a top choice for landowners due to its exceptional balance of capacity, power, and rugged construction. Its 55-gallon chemical tank is ideally sized for covering five acres with minimal interruptions for refilling, maximizing your productivity.
The unit is powered by a reliable 12-volt diaphragm pump, renowned for its self-priming ability and resilience against the abrasive nature of fertilizers and wettable powders.This model boasts a impressive 60-inch spray boom outfitted with three adjustable nozzles, providing a wide and even coverage pattern for open fields.
For more precise or perimeter spraying, it includes a convenient handgun attachment connected by a generous 50-foot hose. The heavy-duty steel frame and pneumatic tires are designed to handle rough terrain, ensuring stability and durability season after season.
NorthStar’s attention to detail is evident in features like the easy-access fill port, translucent tank for monitoring liquid levels, and a integrated filter system to protect the pump from debris. It represents a professional-grade solution that delivers outstanding performance and reliability for the serious landowner.
Pros:
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Large capacity
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Powerful pump
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Very durable
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Even coverage
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Handgun included
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Rough terrain
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Great value
Cons:
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Some assembly
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Heavy
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Basic manual
2. Fimco 40-Gallon Sprayer – Best Value
The Fimco 40-Gallon Sprayer is the undisputed champion of value, offering a tremendous feature set at an incredibly accessible price point. It is the ideal entry-level model for those who need effective and reliable spraying without a massive financial investment.
This sprayer doesn’t cut corners on necessary features, including a quality diaphragm pump and a sturdy steel chassis that belies its cost.It is equipped with a 40-gallon polyethylene tank, a perfect size for navigating a five-acre property without feeling too bulky or too small.
The spray boom is adjustable and features multiple nozzles for customizable coverage, and it also comes with a handy spray gun for spot treatment jobs. Its compact design makes it easy to store in a garage or shed when not in use.
For homeowners and small-scale landowners, the Fimco sprayer delivers professional results on a homeowner’s budget. It handles herbicides, insecticides, and liquid fertilizers with equal proficiency, making it a versatile tool for comprehensive property maintenance.
Pros:
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Low cost
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Good capacity
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Solid performance
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Includes spray gun
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Easy maneuverability
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Simple operation
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Good warranty
Cons:
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Lighter frame
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Smaller tires
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Manual agitation
3. Field King 60-Gallon Sprayer – Best High-Capacity
For those whose top priority is covering maximum ground in minimum time, the Field King 60-Gallon Sprayer is a phenomenal high-capacity workhorse. Its large tank volume significantly reduces the number of trips needed to refill, making it exceptionally efficient for large, open five-acre plots. The robust construction ensures this unit can handle the demands of frequent, heavy use.
It is powered by a heavy-duty 12-volt diaphragm pump that delivers a strong, consistent pressure for uniform chemical application. The adjustable boom arms provide up to a 12-foot swath of coverage, and the inclusion of a boomless nozzle kit makes it adaptable for spraying around obstacles and in rough areas. The large, pneumatic tires provide excellent flotation and stability on uneven ground.
This sprayer is built for landowners who mean business. If you have extensive pastures, food plots, or acreage that requires regular treatment, the Field King model will save you considerable time and effort with its impressive capacity and powerful performance.
Pros:
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Huge capacity
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Wide coverage
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Powerful pump
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Boomless option
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Sturdy build
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Big tires
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Time saver
Cons:
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Requires storage
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Heavier weight
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Higher price
4. Chapin 30-Gallon Sprayer
– Most Compact
The Chapin 30-Gallon Sprayer is the perfect solution for landowners with five acres that feature varied terrain, numerous obstacles, or smaller, segmented fields. Its more compact and nimble design allows for easy maneuvering between trees, garden rows, and tight spaces where larger sprayers cannot go.
Don’t let its size fool you; it is packed with performance-oriented features.It maintains a professional-grade diaphragm pump that provides reliable pressure for both its boom and handgun attachments. The tank is constructed from chemical-resistant polyethylene, and the frame is designed for durability despite its lighter overall footprint.
This model exemplifies efficiency, allowing you to precisely apply product exactly where it’s needed without the hassle of a bulky machine.
For those with diverse properties that include lawns, orchards, and gardens in addition to open areas, the Chapin 30-Gallon offers unparalleled versatility. It is the ideal compact yet capable sprayer for the discerning landowner who values precision and agility.
Pros:
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Highly maneuverable
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Easy storage
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Quality pump
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Good for obstacles
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Simple setup
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Versatile use
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Durable materials
Cons:
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Frequent refills
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Narrower boom
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Smaller tires
5. Agri-Fab 45-Gallon Sprayer – Best for Lawns
Agri-Fab is synonymous with lawn and garden care, and their 45-Gallon Sprayer is expertly engineered for the landowner whose five acres is primarily maintained turf. It features a clean, streamlined design and a powder-coated frame that resists the corrosion caused by grass clippings and moisture.
The unit is built for a smooth, clean operation that won’t tear up a well-manicured lawn.Its 45-gallon capacity is ideal for applying liquid fertilizers, herbicides, and fungicides across large grassy areas. The centrifugal pump provides excellent agitation for mixtures that require it, ensuring a consistent solution is always being applied.
The boom height is easily adjustable to ensure the perfect application height for different stages of grass growth.
If your focus is on achieving a golf-course-quality lawn, the Agri-Fab sprayer is the tool for the job. It combines effective coverage with a design that protects your turf from damage, delivering professional-grade results.
Pros:
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Turf-friendly
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Corrosion resistant
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Consistent application
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Good agitation
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Easy towing
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Attractive design
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Brand reputation
Cons:
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Pump less durable
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Not for fertilizers
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Pricey
6. My4Sons 25-Gallon Sprayer – Best Budget Pick
The My4Sons 25-Gallon Sprayer proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a fully functional and reliable spraying solution. This model is the ultimate budget-friendly pick, incorporating all the essential features needed for effective property maintenance on a five-acre plot. It is an outstanding value for those just starting out or for use as a dedicated spot-spraying unit.
It includes a 12V pump, a 15-foot spray boom with three nozzles, and a hand sprayer—everything you need to tackle both broad-area and targeted applications. The assembly is straightforward, and the design is simple and effective. Its smaller size makes it incredibly easy to handle, store, and maneuver around the property.
For the cost-conscious buyer, this sprayer delivers remarkable utility and performance. It effectively handles common tasks like weed control along fence lines and in pastures, providing incredible bang for your buck.
Pros:
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Very affordable
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Complete kit
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Easy assembly
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Very lightweight
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Simple to use
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Good for spot-spraying
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Includes gun
Cons:
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Small capacity
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Light-duty frame
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Limited for acres
7. Dirt Dog 50-Gallon Skid Sprayer – Most Versatile
While technically a skid sprayer, the Dirt Dog 50-Gallon model deserves a mention for its incredible versatility, as it can be easily mounted on a truck bed or utility trailer for use on a five-acre property. This flexibility is its greatest strength, allowing you to use it as a pull-behind with a trailer or as a highly mobile unit in the bed of your UTV or pickup truck.
It features a massive 2.1 GPM diaphragm pump, one of the most powerful on this list, capable of producing high pressure for long-range spraying with its handgun. The all-steel construction is built to withstand years of abuse and harsh chemicals. This is the go-to choice for landowners who need to spray areas inaccessible to traditional tow-behind units.
If your property has rough, rocky, or densely wooded areas that a cart cannot reach, the Dirt Dog skid sprayer gives you the power to get the job done. Its adaptable nature makes it an incredibly useful tool for comprehensive land management.
Pros:
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Very versatile
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Extremely powerful
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Ultra-durable
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High pressure
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Long range
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Multiple uses
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Great for UTVs
Cons:
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Requires mounting
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No boom
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Heavy
8. Smithco 60-Gallon Sprayer – Professional Grade
For the landowner who operates on an industrial scale or demands absolute commercial-grade quality, the Smithco 60-Gallon Sprayer is in a class of its own. This is the sprayer chosen by professional farmers and groundskeeping crews for its unparalleled durability, precision, and advanced features. It is a significant investment designed for a lifetime of hard use.
Every component is top-tier, from the industrial-duty diaphragm pump to the fully adjustable, breakaway boom system that prevents damage when hitting obstacles. The calibration and control systems are precise, allowing for exact application rates. This sprayer is built to deliver flawless performance day in and day out on large-scale projects.
If your five acres is part of a larger operation or you simply refuse to compromise on quality, the Smithco is the ultimate machine. It represents the peak of sprayer technology and durability, ensuring unmatched performance and reliability.
Pros:
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Commercial durability
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Precision control
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Breakaway booms
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Massive capacity
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Top-tier components
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Excellent performance
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Long lifespan
Cons:
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Very expensive
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Complex setup
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Professional needed
9. Bad Boy 50-Gallon Sprayer – Best for Food Plots
The Bad Boy 50-Gallon Sprayer is specifically engineered for the serious land manager who prioritizes creating and maintaining high-quality wildlife food plots. Its design focuses on delivering reliable performance in the often rough and remote conditions where food plots are typically located. It is a rugged, no-nonsense tool built for a specific purpose.
It features a high-flow diaphragm pump that handles fertilizers and herbicides with ease, and its sturdy construction can take the punishment of being hauled over uneven ground. The boom is designed to provide even coverage for various seed types and soil amendments. This sprayer is all about effectiveness and dependability in the field.
For hunters and wildlife enthusiasts managing their land to attract game, the Bad Boy sprayer is an indispensable piece of equipment. It helps ensure your food plots are lush, attractive, and productive throughout the season.
Pros:
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Rugged build
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Handles fertilizers
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Good flow
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Food plot specific
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Reliable performance
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Easy cleanup
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Durable tires
Cons:
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Basic features
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Heavy
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Niche use
10. Atrazine 40-Gallon Spot Sprayer – Best for Spot Treatment
While many sprayers on this list are designed for broadcast application, the Atrazine 40-Gallon Spot Sprayer excels in targeted work. This model is optimized for using a handgun rather than a boom, making it the perfect tool for precision jobs like treating fence lines, individual weeds, brush piles, and foundation spraying around outbuildings.
It features a high-pressure pump that delivers a powerful, focused stream through its handgun, allowing you to reach distant weeds without leaving the seat of your ATV or tractor. The 40-gallon capacity provides ample chemical for extended spot treatment sessions without constant refills. Its value is in its focused functionality.
Every five-acre property needs spot treatment, and this dedicated unit performs that task better than a boom sprayer ever could. It is the perfect complementary sprayer to own alongside a broadcast model for total property control.
Pros:
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High pressure
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Long range
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Great for brush
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Precise application
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Good capacity
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Simple design
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Affordable price
Cons:
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No boom
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Slow coverage
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Manual operation
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Perfect Pull-Behind Sprayer for 5 Acres
Each sprayer works differently depending on tank capacity, pump type, boom width, and terrain adaptability. By selecting the ideal model, you can manage pastures, food plots, or large lawns effectively throughout the year.
1. Assess Your Land and Needs
Consider your land’s size, terrain, and layout. Determine the types of chemicals you will apply and how often you plan to use the sprayer. Matching the sprayer to your specific needs ensures efficiency and longevity.
2. Choose the Right Tank Capacity
For five acres, a 25 to 60-gallon tank provides a balance between maneuverability and fewer refill stops. Larger tanks reduce interruptions but may be harder to pull on uneven terrain.
3. Select an Appropriate Pump Type
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Diaphragm Pumps: Durable and handle fertilizers and suspensions well. For example, the Agri-Fab 45-0590 features a 4 GPM, 100 PSI Remco diaphragm pump, ideal for high-hour commercial applications.
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Centrifugal Pumps: Capable of higher flow at lower nozzle pressure and require more horsepower than diaphragm pumps. The NorthStar Tow-Behind Trailer Sprayer utilizes a high-flow centrifugal pump for fast chemical application.
4. Consider Boom Width
A wider boom covers more ground quickly but can be cumbersome in uneven or wooded areas. For instance, the Workhorse LG25DTS model offers a 12 ft vertical spray and 15 ft hose, suitable for various terrains.
5. Prioritize Build Quality
Look for sprayers with UV-resistant polyethylene tanks and powder-coated steel frames to prevent rust and chemical damage. The Brinly ST-251BH features a heavy-duty 25-gallon poly tank and a 12’ spray hose with ergonomic thumb control spray gun.
6. Look for Helpful Features
Options like a boomless nozzle are great for fence lines, ditches, and tight spaces. A pressure gauge and regulator help maintain accurate, consistent application rates. The NorthStar Tow-Behind Trailer Sprayer includes a deluxe trigger spray gun, 9 nozzles, 13ft boom, and 21ft hose for versatile spraying.
7. Invest Wisely
Buying a well-built sprayer from the start may cost more upfront but saves money, time, and frustration over the long term. A reliable sprayer ensures consistent results season after season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What size pull behind sprayer do I need for 5 acres?
A sprayer with a 25 to 60-gallon tank is ideal for five acres. This range offers the best balance between efficiency and maneuverability. A larger tank means fewer refill stops, covering more ground faster on open land. A smaller tank offers greater agility for properties with many obstacles or hills.
Consider your tractor or ATV’s towing capacity as well, as a full 60-gallon tank weighs over 500 pounds. Your specific needs will determine the perfect size; choose a larger capacity for open fields and a more compact one for diverse, obstacle-filled terrain.
What type of pump is best for a pull-behind sprayer?
For most landowners, a diaphragm pump is the superior choice. Diaphragm pumps are self-priming, extremely durable, and can handle a wide variety of chemicals, including abrasive fertilizers and suspensions. They are reliable and built for long-term use on a farm or large property.
Centrifugal pumps are another option, prized for their ability to provide continuous agitation of the tank solution, which is crucial for some mixtures. However, they are generally less durable than diaphragm pumps when dealing with abrasive materials. For versatility and ruggedness, a diaphragm pump is highly recommended.
How do I calculate the application rate for my sprayer?
Calculating your application rate is critical for applying chemicals effectively and safely. First, determine your sprayer’s output by spraying water over a measured distance at your normal operating speed and pressure. Collect the output from one nozzle to calculate gallons per minute (GPM).
Next, measure the effective swath width of your boom. The formula is: Application Rate (GPA) = (5940 x GPM) / (MPH x W) where MPH is speed in miles per hour and W is swath width in inches. Calibrating your sprayer ensures you apply the correct amount of chemical, preventing waste or ineffective treatment.
How should I clean and maintain my sprayer after each use?
Proper cleaning, or rinsing, is essential to prevent chemical cross-contamination and pump damage. Always triple-rinse the tank with clean water after use, spraying the rinse water through the booms and hoses. For a deeper clean, use a tank cleaner solution or a mild detergent with another thorough rinse.
Lubricate the pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions, often using a light oil. Store the sprayer with the pump disconnected and drained of all water to prevent freezing damage. Proper maintenance significantly extends the life of your investment and ensures accurate applications every time.
Can I use the same sprayer for herbicides and fertilizers?
It is possible, but it requires meticulous cleaning between uses. Residual herbicide left in the tank can damage desirable plants when you switch to applying fertilizer. The risk of cross-contamination is high and can lead to unintended plant death or poor fertilizer performance.
Many professionals recommend dedicating one sprayer solely for herbicides and another for fertilizers and other applications. If you must use one sprayer, you must perform an exhaustive cleaning procedure, including flushing the entire system with a cleaning agent and water multiple times.
What is the advantage of a boomless nozzle?
A boomless nozzle provides extreme versatility for treating areas where a traditional boom is impractical. It emits a wide, fan-shaped pattern from a single nozzle, allowing you to spray ditches, fence lines, wooded areas, and rough terrain without the risk of damaging a rigid boom arm on trees or posts.
It effectively turns your sprayer into a two-in-one machine, capable of both broadcast spraying open fields with the boom and handling perimeter and obstacle-rich areas with the boomless nozzle. This feature is highly recommended for properties with diverse landscapes.
Are larger tires important on a pull-behind sprayer?
Yes, larger pneumatic tires offer significant advantages. They provide better flotation and stability on soft, wet, or uneven ground, reducing the risk of getting stuck or tipping over. Larger tires also roll more easily over obstacles and rough terrain, putting less strain on your towing vehicle and the sprayer’s frame.
They contribute to a smoother ride, which helps prevent the “sloshing” that can disturb the chemical mixture in the tank. For anything other than perfectly flat lawns, opting for a sprayer with larger, pneumatic tires is a wise decision for improved performance and durability.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect pull-behind sprayer for your five acres is a crucial decision that directly impacts the efficiency and health of your land management practices. The right equipment, whether it’s the high-capacity Field King, the versatile NorthStar, or the value-packed Fimco, will save you immense time, effort, and resources in the long run.
By considering your specific terrain, primary uses, and budget, you can find a model that seamlessly integrates into your routine, transforming a daunting chore into a simple task.
A reliable sprayer is an investment in the beauty and productivity of your property, ensuring you can effectively apply treatments exactly when and where they are needed.
Now that you are equipped with all the necessary knowledge, browse the top models listed above and take the first step toward effortless land care by investing in the perfect sprayer for your needs today