One of the toughest weed problems growers face starts right at the edge of the field. Weeds hide in ditches, along fence lines, near tree rows, around utility poles, and next to waterways. These areas often become starting points for weed pressure that slowly moves into the field, hurting yields and increasing management costs. Traditional spray passes focus on the crop rows and leave these edges untreated, or they require a separate pass with a different machine. Precision Planting’s SmokeRow sprayer technology addresses this issue by allowing a different mixture to be applied exactly where it is needed, while the operator makes a normal spray pass. This technology was recently highlighted by Successful Farming, and it’s certainly worth considering.

Why Field Edge Weed Control Matters

Field edges behave differently than the rest of the field. These areas often contain grasses or vegetation that growers want to preserve while still controlling aggressive weeds that spread seed into crop ground. Applying a standard tank mix everywhere can damage desirable plants along the edge, while skipping the edge altogether allows weeds to thrive. SmokeRow gives operators the ability to apply a more appropriate chemistry at the boundary without changing how the rest of the field is sprayed. This targeted approach helps stop weed pressure before it moves inward and becomes a larger problem.

How SmokeRow Works

SmokeRow uses a secondary tank mounted on the sprayer that holds a separate chemical mix from the main tank. Nozzles mounted at the ends of the boom apply this edge-specific mixture beyond the normal spray width. Operators can choose different distances depending on conditions, allowing spray coverage several feet beyond the boom when needed. Controls in the cab make it easy to turn the system on or off, and a foot switch allows activation without distracting from driving. The system operates during normal field spraying, so no extra passes are required.

Designed to Reduce Drift

Spraying beyond the boom naturally raises concerns about drift and off-target movement. SmokeRow addresses this by using nozzle configurations that produce coarser droplets, which are less likely to drift than fine mist applications. Operators still need to pay attention to wind direction, weather conditions, and nearby sensitive areas, but the design focuses on responsible placement of the spray. This helps ensure the product reaches the intended area while minimizing risk to neighboring crops or vegetation.

Why It Can Make Economic Sense

SmokeRow can save time, labor, and fuel. Many growers currently manage field edges with separate equipment, such as four-wheelers, side-by-sides, or handheld sprayers, which adds hours to the workload. Others avoid edge spraying altogether and deal with increased weed pressure later in the season. By treating edges during a normal spray pass, SmokeRow reduces the need for extra trips while helping prevent weeds from spreading into productive acres. For farms already equipped with an auxiliary tank, the system can often be added with minimal additional hardware, improving the return on investment.

A Smarter Way to Manage Weed Pressure

Weed control does not stop at the crop row. Field edges are often where problems begin, and ignoring them can lead to higher costs and more difficult control later in the season. SmokeRow offers a practical way to address those areas with precision, flexibility, and efficiency. By applying the right product in the right place at the right time, growers can protect yields, preserve beneficial vegetation, and streamline their spraying operations.