What does VMD stand for in the context of pesticide application?

In the context of pesticide application, VMD stands for Volume Median Diameter. This term refers to a measurement used to describe the size of droplets produced by a spray application. The volume median diameter is a statistical measure that indicates the diameter at which 50% of the volume of droplets is smaller and 50% is larger. Understanding the VMD is crucial for effective pesticide application, as it helps ensure proper coverage of the target area and minimizes drift, which can lead to environmental concerns or harm to non-target organisms. A well-managed VMD assists applicators in achieving the desired efficacy while adhering to safety regulations and best practices in pesticide use.