Once a majority of bolls are open and mature — timing varies by region and weather, but the goal is stripping leaves without triggering premature boll drop or damaging fiber quality, typically finishing within about two weeks of the first application in a staggered two-pass approach.

Research on staggered two-application UAV defoliation has shown upper-canopy defoliation rates above 90% and total defoliation above 80%, sufficient to meet mechanical harvest requirements — though dense, high-canopy fields benefit from careful flight planning to address the lower-canopy coverage that's a known challenge for any aerial method, drone or manned.

Yes — this is one of the clearest advantages for defoliation specifically. A ground rig physically drives through mature rows, causing rolling damage to plants and open bolls; a drone applies without ground contact.

UAV trials have used volumes in the 17.6-29.0 L/ha range, notably lower than the roughly 147 L/ha typical of a conventional ground broadcast pass, since drone application relies on more concentrated, precisely targeted coverage.

Yes — we regularly schedule on-farm demonstrations and remote video walkthroughs. We'll show flight planning on your actual field boundaries, spray deposition results, and answer technical questions with your team.

Financing options and Section 179 tax considerations may apply to your purchase — ask your Syntion representative for current options, and consult your tax advisor on Section 179 eligibility for your operation.