Design and first testing of a prototype of a fixed spraying system for sloping vineyards.

With the aim to suggest a solution to problems caused by plant protection products application in very sloping vineyards, a prototype of fixed spraying system was designed and built as an alternative to aerial and manual applications. A two years testing was carried out to focus the effectiveness and eventual issues of the system. After some adjustments of the layout of the plant, the results showed an acceptable control of the two main diseases of vine (downy mildew and powdery mildew), but also pointed out some critical points to consider as well.