Homeowner with 12 recently planted fruit trees - Ask Extension
I planted Semicrisp and Bosc Pear, Fiesta Gem and Red Haven peach, June Princess nectarines, Bartlett and Asian pear, a dozen total trees this fall. D...
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Homeowner with 12 recently planted fruit trees #889799
Asked November 13, 2024, 4:57 PM EST
I planted Semicrisp and Bosc Pear, Fiesta Gem and Red Haven peach, June Princess nectarines, Bartlett and Asian pear, a dozen total trees this fall. Do I need to do any winter pesticide control or oil?
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
Usually dormant sprays for diseases and scale insects are done in the spring starting around bud break (usually in March). We don't recommend any pesticide usage entering the winter season for a new planting. You should protect against potential rodent damage, however. Plastic tree wraps or cages help prevent rodent feeding, which can be a major issue for young trees.
You might also consider white latex paint and wraps, which reduce trunk damage due to rapid temperature fluctuations due to sunlight in mid winter. These will not protect against extreme lows, though.
