Time To Spray Your Fruit Trees
If you own fruit trees, you know how important it is to take good care of them. One important aspect of tree care is spraying them with dormant oil in early spring. Dormant oil, also known as horticultural oil, is an effective way to control pests and diseases before they have a chance to take hold. In this article, we will discuss how to spray fruit trees with dormant oil in the early spring.
What is Dormant Oil?
Dormant oil is a type of insecticide that is applied to fruit trees during their dormant period, which is typically in the early spring before buds start to break. Dormant oil is made from mineral oil or vegetable oil and is designed to smother insects and their eggs that have overwintered on the tree. In addition to controlling pests, dormant oil can also help prevent fungal diseases from spreading.
When to Spray Fruit Trees with Dormant Oil
The best time to spray fruit trees with dormant oil is in late winter or early spring, before the buds begin to break. Ideally, you should spray your trees on a dry, windless day when the temperature is above freezing. It's important to avoid spraying when the temperature is below freezing or when the tree is wet, as this can damage the tree.
How to Spray Fruit Trees with Dormant Oil
To spray fruit trees with dormant oil, you will need a sprayer that is designed for horticultural oil. You can find these at most garden centers or online. You will also need to mix the dormant oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
I recommend this multipurpose neem oil for your fruit trees, along with a hand sprayer to treat your fruit trees in the spring. Click on image to see details.
How To Apply Dormant Oil
Here are the steps to follow when spraying your fruit trees with dormant oil:
Start by cleaning your sprayer to remove any residual chemicals from previous use. Rinse the sprayer with water and then fill it with the appropriate amount of water for the amount of oil you will be using.
Add the dormant oil to the sprayer and mix it well.
Begin spraying the tree at the top and work your way down, making sure to cover all parts of the tree, including the trunk, branches, and twigs. Be sure to spray the tree until the oil is dripping off the branches.
Once you have finished spraying the tree, allow it to dry completely before watering or fertilizing.
Remember to clean your sprayer thoroughly after use and store it in a safe place.
Homemade Dormant Oil Recipes
There are several dormant oil formulas that can be used to keep fruit tree pests under control. Overwintering pests and foliar diseases are controlled by a dormant oil formulation created by Cornell University researchers. One gallon of water is combined with two tablespoons of baking soda and two tablespoons of ultrafine canola oil. Moreover, researchers at Cornell University created a nourishing mixture that includes 1 gallon of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of horticultural oil, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of kelp, and 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap. Another dormant oil remedy calls for 1 gallon of water, 2 tablespoons of castile soap, 5 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, and 2 tablespoons of baking soda, which is derived from olive oil.
Benefits of Dormant Oil
Spraying fruit trees with dormant oil has several benefits. It can help control pests such as aphids, mites, and scale insects, which can cause damage to the tree and reduce fruit production. Dormant oil can also help prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and apple scab from spreading. By using dormant oil, you can help ensure that your fruit trees remain healthy and productive.
Spraying your fruit trees with dormant oil in the early spring is an important part of tree care. It can help control pests and diseases before they have a chance to take hold, and it can help ensure that your fruit trees remain healthy and productive. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and effectively spray your fruit trees with dormant oil and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
