Knowledgebase
Apple blossom issues #751951
Asked May 24, 2021, 10:58 PM EDT
Klamath County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi, a common issue in the PNW that can cause this issue in apple is the apple blister or apple rust mite. These are tiny, microscopic mites that are yellowish/ golden.
Here are some references on those mites that might be helpful: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-blister-mite
and this one, with better pictures more like what you are seeing: https://extension.usu.edu/pests/ipm/notes_ag/fruit-blister-mites
I hope you find this helpful- distance diagnosis can be tricky! If you don't think this lines up with what you are seeing, please don't hesitate to let me know so we can try again. Thank you, Nicole
Sent from my iPhone
On May 28, 2021, at 12:49 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Hi Rick, the mites could definitely be responsible for blossom drop, the eggs are laid right into the buds.
here's the latest on testing garden soil:
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/crop-production/soil/how-do-i-test-my-garden-soil
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/em8677
Nitrogen does not stay in the soil very long- if it has been some time since you had the rabbits under the trees, that's probably not the issue. Soil test might be a good idea.
Hope this is helpful,
Nicole