Saturday, February 11, 2012

When is the best time to use a pesticide on my fruit trees?

We have a "postage stamp" orchard that includes peaches, plums, apples, apricots and pears. The trees tried to fruit last year but the fruit just fell off after a couple of days of growth. After opening the fallen fruit we found worms. My trees currently have blossoms on them and I don't want to spray yet, when is the best time?

When is the best time to use a pesticide on my fruit trees?
I can relate to your problems since many backyard fruit growers have had worm problems at one time or another.



Sounds like the problem you have is due to either the "Tufted Apple Bud Moth" or the "Codling Moth". Both are responsible for worms that eat fruit of the trees you mentioned.



I've provided you with a webpage that you can visit to learn how to control this pest in a safe manner. The page discusses the proper timing and application of the pesticides to control these pests in a timely and safe manner. There are several options in controlling these insects and if you have more questions about their control or how to locate the products mentioned, please feel free to contact me.



FYI: The insecticides called "Assail" and "Success" are probably your best options other than using the cultural practices mentioned in the article. Both are very safe to use around homes/animals and are used in organic farming.



Hope this information solves your problem. GOOD LUCK!



-Certified Professional Crop Consultant with over 30 years of experience and a Degree in Plant Science



http://extension.usu.edu/files/publicati...



http://www.ento.vt.edu/Fruitfiles/VAFS-o...



http://store.arbico-organics.com/1230347...
Reply:The solution to your problem, and to reduce your exposure, is simple. Go to the nearest true Nursery Store (vs. the box type store). Purchase an agent called "Dormant Oil Spray". This is applied via water and can be applied twice a year in spring and late-summer. While there make sure your fertilizer choice is right.

During the season you can apply liquid pesticides from the large stores. If the primary agent is Sevin apply it with no hesistation. Make sure you spray not only the fruit and tree leaves but the trunk and base as well. It may take two years before you control the problem you describe. They do not call them pest for nothing!

I use the Sevin in business because it is effective and safe. There are few dog or cat collars that do not contain the same active ingredient. In fact, the collar often contains a higher concentration of the chemical. Prior to shipping many companies use the compound to spray the fruit and vegs to protect against gnats. Good Luck


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