Gardening

Tree Fruit Pest Control: Dormant Spray Application

A common question from backyard orchardists this time of year is, “When do I put on the dormant Spray?” The short answer is while the trees are dormant. There are recognizable stages of growth that occur throughout the growing season. Full dormancy begins in the autumn soon after leaf fall and continues until growth begins in spring. The initial stage of growth, commonly called “delayed dormant”, is characterized by swelling buds, separation of bud scales and the first appearance of green.

Apples and Pears: Fish Oil or Superior Oil plus lime-sulfur in combination. These products are sold separately. Follow label directions carefully. This combination is effective in the dormant or delayed dormant stages but is toxic when applied to green foliage. This will smother over wintering pests such as aphids, mites, San Jose scale and pear psylla. Apply as buds begin to swell but before any green tissue emerges. Spray to thoroughly wet the tree bark as well as branches and twigs.

Stone Fruits: Dormant-Peachleaf Curl and Coryneum Blight use copper sulfate at full dormant stage. This is critical in preventing leafcurl in peaches. Once the bud scales separate it is too late. Delayed dormant: Fish oil or Superior oil can be applied for suppression of mites and aphids. Thorough coverage of all plant surfaces is necessary.

If you have further questions call Small Farm Program Coordinator Terry Swagerty 684-2588.