Reliable Aerial and Ground based Bracken Control

Planning and Preparation

Spraying bracken is not that simple. There is more to it than meets the eye. There is a lot of planning, mapping and now with legislation each aerial spraying job requires individual SEPA or EA approval.
As these aerial approvals can take several weeks and you should contact us as early as possible to arrange the paper work side of life.
Even if you are not proposing to spray this year please contact us with your details and future requirements

Download our on line form

Remember - We need from you maps, map references, and information for access to land.

What are the environmental Issues?

All forms of spraying herbicides have environmental controls and consequences. This is why it is essential that HFM be contacted for planning purposes by May or June to carry out a survey.

Consent has to be granted by the Environmental Agency against formal applications, before spraying can proceed. This takes time and late application may miss the seasonal window of opportunity. Spraying cannot take place within 30 metres of a watercourse, although there is dispensation for water pipes. HFM will advise you about all aspects of these issues, including help with applications to the Environmental Agency if required.

Please remember that weather conditions are critical to successful spraying of Asulox. Spraying cannot take place in a wind over 10 knots. Rain also stops spraying because of the wash-off factor. HFM has to operate a flexible programme, conditioned by weather. However, advance warning is given if the spraying programme will have to be adjusted.

Checklists of some of the environmental issues:

• Warning signs must be displayed– advising the public of the intention to spray where there are footpaths or public rights of way.
• It is safe to travel through bracken within 2 hours of application
• Asulox is approved for use in water catchment areas, making the water safe to drink
• Drift is minimised by the use of special spray nozzles which fall like rain (Delevan Rain Drop Nozzles)
• Asulox is non-toxic, so does not affect people or stock if they are inadvertently exposed to it.
• There is no health threat to grouse or bees caught by aerial spray

Delevan Rain Drop Nozzle