Comparison of <scp>UAV</scp> and <scp>fixed‐wing</scp> aerial application for alfalfa insect pest control: evaluating efficacy, residues, and spray quality

Abstract

The results of this study provide confidence supporting the use of small-scale multi-rotor UAVs for pesticide application on agricultural crops. According to the parameters tested, UAV application quality and crop protection performance were comparable to that of the conventional fixed wing airplane application. However, the droplet spectrum and the short-term fate of droplets from unmanned aerial spray system require further optimization for effective and efficient crop protection with minimal risk to the environment.