Tree Spray Schedule - Ask Extension
We planted a 5-in-1 fruit and a 5-in-1 apple tree last spring. So far, I have not treated them with anything. I purchased fruit tree and plant guard, ...
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Tree Spray Schedule #858421
Asked February 03, 2024, 4:29 PM EST
We planted a 5-in-1 fruit and a 5-in-1 apple tree last spring. So far, I have not treated them with anything. I purchased fruit tree and plant guard, as well as a copper fungicide. What spray schedule should I use for each and is there anything else I should be treating them with?
Sussex County Delaware
Expert Response
The following link will tell you when you need to spray for each of the fruits grafted onto your tree. There is no one solution for all the fruits.
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/spray-program-multi-tree-fruit-orchards/
The marketing on these trees is very good to entice someone to purchase, without indicating what you need to do to have edible fruit. Fruit growing for the homeowner is not for the faint of heart. Most homeowners concentrate on one type of fruit due to the unique spray schedules. Rather than spending the spring and summer spraying, and killing pollinators if sprayed at the wrong time, why not enjoy the bounty from raspberries, strawberries, or a sour cherry tree, Montmorency? All very good homegrown fruits for eating, baking pies or jams. And don’t forget a fig tree.
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/spray-program-multi-tree-fruit-orchards/
The marketing on these trees is very good to entice someone to purchase, without indicating what you need to do to have edible fruit. Fruit growing for the homeowner is not for the faint of heart. Most homeowners concentrate on one type of fruit due to the unique spray schedules. Rather than spending the spring and summer spraying, and killing pollinators if sprayed at the wrong time, why not enjoy the bounty from raspberries, strawberries, or a sour cherry tree, Montmorency? All very good homegrown fruits for eating, baking pies or jams. And don’t forget a fig tree.
Hi Judy,
It seems most of what is put out is geared towards commercial growers and not back yard growers and I don’t have any of the products listed. You’re right about the marketing, but unfortunately, I already bought and planted both of them. I’m going to do the best I can with what I have and moving forward try to educate others, as well. Thank you for responding and for the information you provided. I appreciate it!
Best,
Celeste
As long as you are willing to put up with some fruit that is not 'marketable", i.e. no blemishes and insect scabs, you can try using the products you bought and the timing schedule in this Virginia Tech publication. It is specific to Home fruit growers, but even there you will see there is an extensive number of doses per fruit and several different sprays. The Fruit Tree & Plant Guard seems to cover quite a few of the problems that can occur for each type of fruit, so make that your line of first defense. This is the most comprehensive growing guide we have for homeowners.
