Selecting the Correct Adjuvant

An adjuvant is a product added to a pesticide spray tank - separate from the active ingredient - to improve performance, stability, or application safety. Adjuvants help pesticides work more effectively by improving spreading, sticking, or penetration on leaf surfaces, which can lead to better control and fewer repeat applications.

Key Functions and Types of Adjuvants:

Non-Ionic Surfactants (Spreaders/Sticker): Reduce surface tension so spray droplets spread evenly across the leaf, improving coverage and absorption.

Stickers: Help the pesticide adhere to plant surfaces, reducing wash-off from rain or irrigation.

Penetrants: Improve the product’s ability to move through waxy or tough leaf cuticles.

Compatibility Agents: Keep multiple products mixed properly in the same tank, preventing separation or clogging and ensuring a uniform application.

Drift Control Agents: Minimize off-target spray movement to help protect surrounding crops and areas.

Buffering/Conditioning Agents: Adjust water pH and reduce hard water tie-up, helping prevent pesticide breakdown and maintain effectiveness.

When shopping for an adjuvant, use the filter on the left to narrow down the type of adjuvant for your individual use.