Knowledgebase
2 Espaliered Apple trees #857713
Asked January 23, 2024, 2:46 PM EST
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
Good afternoon Sally, and thanks for Contacting Ask Extension!
Dormant Sprays should be done in the dormant or delayed dormant stage. For most apple varieties, you would be looking at December-January. However, always check the label and monitor the tree for bud development.
Regarding insect sprays, I would start monitoring for Coddling Moth and Apple Maggot in the spring. Both can be monitored via pheromone traps. If you are starting to see either species, then it may be time to spray.
Soil testing should be done in the spring, or in the fall. You are looking at fertilization levels either before the season or just after. Whichever you decide to do, make sure to stick with the timing.
Fertilization usually starts in the middle or later part of spring.
Thanks!
Logan