Chemical agents and their use
The use of chemical agents for spraying should only be considered in the event of extreme pest infestation. Only when nature is so far out of balance that almost every single apple is infested with the caterpillars of the frost moth should the chemical club be used. However, treatment in the current year is often too late, especially since some of the treated fruits can no longer be consumed. Most chemical agents have to be regularly distributed over the entire treetop by May at the latest to be effective at all.
also read
- Effective against pests and diseases - spray fruit trees correctly
- Sometimes only spraying helps against infestation with fruit flies
- Recognize and fight pests on the apple tree
Strengthen the tree with targeted care measures
If a fungal attack is found on an apple tree, the use of a spray is sometimes not absolutely necessary. Often a fungal attack is also due to too high a level of moisture, which results from the tree top being too dense. With a strong summer pruning, this problem can sometimes be solved without chemical damage to the harvest.
Protect your own health when spraying
Since many chemical agents are not harmless, the warnings on the packaging should be observed. Many products can no longer be used for a certain period before the harvest without affecting the apples' ability to be consumed. In addition, you should only spray when there is no wind so that you do not inhale the agent yourself while working. If possible, wear respiratory protection, which also protects you from accidentally inhaling the product.
Biological alternatives
Not only in commercial organic farming, but also in your own garden, you can do a lot against pests and various diseases with natural means. Biological sprays include, for example:
- Solution of baking soda
- Vermouth tea
- Rapeseed oil
These agents only work on the surface of the plants and do not penetrate branches and fruits. But since they are washed off by the rain, they must be used regularly.
Tips & Tricks
Excessive manifestations of diseases and pests usually only occur in monocultures. A loosened planting with other fruit trees can protect against this as well as the selection of scab-resistant varieties for the apple tree.
