An apple tree in your own garden is often associated with a great deal of care. If pests are found on the apples, there is a great temptation to put an end to them with sprays.

Chemical agents and their use

The use of chemical agents for spraying should only be considered in the case of an extreme infestation with pests. Only when nature is already so far out of balance that almost every single apple is infested with the frost moth caterpillars should a chemical mace be used. However, treatment in the current year is then often too late, especially since some of the treated fruit can then no longer be eaten. Most chemical agents must be distributed regularly over the entire tree crown by May at the latest in order to be effective at all.

Strengthen the tree with targeted care measures

If fungal infestation is found on an apple tree, it is sometimes not absolutely necessary to use a spray. Fungal infestation is often due to too much moisture, which results from a tree crown that is too dense. A vigorous summer pruning can sometimes solve this problem without chemically affecting the crop.

Protect your own health when spraying

Since many chemical agents are not harmless, it is important to heed the warnings given on the packaging. Many means can no longer be used in a certain period before harvest without impairing the edibility of the apples. In addition, you should only spray when there is no wind, so that you do not inhale the agent yourself at work. If possible, also wear respiratory protection, which also protects you against accidental inhalation of the respective agent.

Biological alternatives

Not only in commercial organic farming, but also in your own garden you can do a lot with natural means against pests and various diseases. Examples of biological sprays include:

  • Baking soda solution
  • vermouth tea
  • rapeseed oil

These agents act only on the surface of the plants and do not penetrate into branches and fruits. However, since they are washed off by the rain, they must be used regularly.

tips and tricks

Excessively strong manifestations of diseases and pests usually only occur in monocultures. A loose planting with other fruit trees can protect against this, as can the selection of scab-resistant apple tree varieties.

Category:

Trees