Guide
DAERA spray record template or an app? An honest comparison
In July 2026 DAERA published a free Excel spray record template. It is a sensible starting point, and for some users it is all they need. For others, especially contractors spraying for many clients, an app saves hours. Here is a fair comparison so you can decide.
| Excel template | Sprayfolio app | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | From £6 a month, 7-day free trial |
| Meets the machine-readable format | Yes (.xlsx) | Yes (CSV, Excel, JSON in the 2023/564 layout) |
| Authorisation numbers | Typed in by you | Filled in from the product register |
| EPPO and BBCH codes | Looked up and typed by you | Chosen from built-in lists |
| Recording in the field | Needs a laptop or a later copy from paper | On your phone, works with no signal |
| Copies for clients | Filter and email a copy for each client | One secure link per client, always up to date |
| Checks and warnings | None unless you build them | Warnings for expired products and high doses |
| Audit trail | None | Every edit versioned |
| Several operators | Shared file, risk of overwriting | Roles and permissions for each person |
When the template is enough
- You spray a handful of times a year on your own land
- You are at a desk when you record
- You have no clients who need copies
When an app pays for itself
- You spray for clients who are entitled to their records
- Several people spray for the business
- You record from the van, the tractor or the course
- You want the codes and numbers right without looking them up
Already started on the template?
Sprayfolio can import records from a spreadsheet, so anything you have already entered can come with you. Check the columns during the free trial and bring last season in with it.
This guide is a summary to help you prepare and is not legal advice. Rules and national templates can change, so always check the source legislation and your competent authority. You remain responsible for the accuracy of your records. Last reviewed September 2026.
The DAERA template is available from DAERA’s website. Sprayfolio is not affiliated with DAERA or DAFM.
Be ready for 1 January 2027
Record every spray on your phone in under a minute, in the format the new rules ask for.