Which application method increases the potential for non-target crop injury?

The potential for non-target crop injury is notably higher with aerial application. This method involves applying pesticides or fertilizers from an aircraft, which can cover large areas quickly but also increases the risk of drift. Wind can carry the sprayed materials away from the intended target, potentially harming nearby crops or plants that are sensitive to the chemical applied.

In practices like ground application, furrow irrigation, and drip irrigation, the control over where the material is applied is generally more precise. Ground application can be adjusted for better targeting, while furrow and drip irrigation deliver water and nutrients directly to the root zone, minimizing the risk of non-target exposure. Aerial application, while beneficial for its speed and coverage, requires careful management of environmental conditions to mitigate the risk of off-target injury.