Aphids are not only an annoying phenomenon in the garden on many flowering shrubs. If the apple tree is severely infested, you should take appropriate measures so that the tree is not weakened and the apple harvest is not endangered.

Timely discovery as a basis for countermeasures

Certain types of aphids can only be recognized as pests on the branches and leaves of the apple tree from afar when the damage manifests itself with conspicuous curling and malformations of the leaves. White-coated leaves can also be an indication of an infestation with aphids. In the case of the apple tree, the following species in particular can cause damage to the tree:

  • applegrass aphid
  • apple wrinkle louse
  • Mealy apple aphid

If you notice a severe infestation in summer due to noticeable deformation of the leaves, it is usually too late for effective control in the same year. Since aphids can almost always be found on the young shoots and buds, these should be checked for a possible aphid infestation as soon as they sprout in spring. In this way, targeted measures can be initiated immediately if necessary.

Prevent a weakening of the tree

Aphids pose a danger to an already ailing apple tree because they suck a lot of tree sap from the bark ducts on the shoots. It can also be a control measure if you remove infested branches from the apple tree as part of the summer pruning and burn them immediately. The use of chemical sprays against aphids is often not only time-consuming and expensive, but can also make the harvest inedible in the same year. If, on the other hand, pruning is used as a countermeasure, the vitality of the affected tree can benefit from the rejuvenation of its tree crown.

Targeted promotion of beneficial organisms

Natural enemies, such as ladybirds and earwigs, offer the most success in the long-term control of aphids. These can now be purchased in specialist shops and exposed to affected trees. Since aphids reproduce asexually in spring and therefore very rapidly, early use pays off twice as subsequent generations of aphids are prevented from the outset.

tips and tricks

You can lure the earwig into the crown of your apple tree relatively easily by filling upside-down clay pots with excelsior and hanging them just below the branches. These represent an ideal home and breeding ground for the earwig, a natural enemy of aphids.

Category:

Trees