When you take care of a garden, you need to make sure that you provide them with everything they need.
Aside from sunlight and water, you also have to spray them with various chemicals using a sprayer.
We’ve got you covered if you don’t know how to use a garden sprayer.
We’ve prepared this quick guide to help you out whenever you’re out in the garden.
How to Use a Garden Sprayer
Although a garden sprayer seems to work like magic, it’s actually easier to use than it looks.
Here are the steps you need to follow to maximize your sprayer’s potential:
Step No. 1: Prepare the Solution
First, you need to prepare the solution you’ll be using for your plants.
This, of course, depends on what you need at the moment.
Nonetheless, you should check the instruction manual or the manufacturer’s website to determine whether or not the solution or chemical you’re using is compatible with the tank.
If necessary, pour water into the tank, but make sure to leave about 1/3 of empty space in the container.
Never fill it to the brim, as this wouldn’t allow pressure to build up inside the container.
Step No. 2: Pressurize
The next step is to build pressure inside the tank. Simply screw the top portion of the lid onto the tank.
Pull the handle or the pressure bar upwards and push it back down.
Repeat the process until it’s difficult to push back down.
That means you have enough pressure in the tank.
Some sprayers have a locking mechanism, especially those that have tanks.
After pushing the handle down one last time, rotate it clockwise to lock it in place.
Step No. 3: Adjust the Nozzle
Most, if not all, garden sprayers have adjustable nozzles. This feature allows you to change the spraying pattern of the device depending on what you currently need.
More often than not, you only have to choose between two.
The wide spray or cone pattern lets you apply the solution to plants and flowers.
On the other hand, the stream pattern allows you to target only specific areas, which is very helpful when you’re trying to get rid of weeds.
Step No. 4: Apply the Solution
Once you have the correct spraying pattern, it’s time to apply the solution. You only need to pull the trigger on the device.
Some garden sprayers have a locking mechanism that lets you keep the trigger in place for continuous spraying.
This is particularly helpful when you’re trying to cover a broader area with your sprayer.
Step No. 5: Refill
If you run out of solution, you need to refill the container before you can use the sprayer again.
For safety concerns, please follow these instructions carefully.
First, look for the tank’s release valve and open it.
This allows you to relieve pressure inside the container. It’s usually located on one or two sides of the container just below the top cover.
Tilt the container sideways after releasing the pressure before opening the top cover.
This is to ensure that your face doesn’t get sprayed by harmful chemicals or solutions inside the tank.
Finally, pour the solution into the tank, and make sure that you pour only what’s necessary.
Again, be sure to leave at least 1/3 of empty space. Repeat the 2nd step to pressurize the tank, and you can begin applying the solution again.
Step No. 6: Clean the Tank
Lastly, you may want to clean your garden sprayer after using it.
If you only used it to spray water, you’re probably good to go.
However, if you use it to spray herbicides and other chemicals, you should clean it.
While garden sprayers can withstand chemicals, constant exposure to these elements may compromise their overall quality.
Therefore, you should empty it and keep it in its pristine condition.
To do this, simply follow the steps above to release the pressure on the tank and open its top cover.
Next, dispose of the chemicals properly or pour them back into their original container if possible.
Once the tank is empty, pour the liquid soap into it, cover it with the top lid, and spin or shake the container to allow the soap to reach every inch of the interior.
Repeat this process twice or thrice, especially if you use strong chemicals.
Step No. 7: Clean the Wand
If your garden sprayer includes a wand, you may also want to clean that.
To do this, pour the liquid soap into the tank again, but pressurize the tank by pumping the pressure bar.
Once there’s enough pressure, pull the wand’s trigger so that the liquid soap is forced out of the container.
Repeat the process twice or thrice before rinsing everything with water.
A Few Tips: When Using a Garden Sprayer
When using your garden sprayer, keep these essential tips in mind:
- When spraying a field, start from the farthest end of the area and walk backward. Doing so will ensure that you don’t walk over the area you’ve already sprayed with chemicals.
- If your nozzle doesn’t have an indicator, spray it onto the concrete first before applying them to the plants to make sure you have the correct spraying pattern.
- If you regularly have to apply herbicides and pesticides to your plants, make sure you have two garden sprayers. Even if you clean them thoroughly, chemicals may still stay inside the tank, and a dedicated sprayer prevents mix-ups.
Using Your Garden Sprayer the Right Way
Well, there you have it. You now know how to use a garden sprayer.
It’s very easy, right? Just keep in mind that while each garden sprayer is built differently, its basic principles are almost always the same.
They just need to build enough pressure inside the tank to force the content out.
Whether you’re using a handheld sprayer, a tank sprayer, or even a backpack sprayer, knowing how to use it is the key to maximizing its potential.
Be sure also to check the instruction manual for specific functions that only your sprayer might have.