Canker is a fungal disease that affects apple trees. It can cause damage to the tree’s bark and eventually lead to the death of the tree. Pruning infected branches is one way to control canker in apple plants, but it’s not enough. Here are some ways to control canker in apple plants after pruning.
1. Sanitize Your Pruning Tools
Before pruning, ensure that your pruning tools are clean and sanitize. The first step is to clean them with soapy water and then disinfect them with bleach or rubbing alcohol. This will help prevent the spread of the canker disease to other healthy branches.
2. Apply a Fungicide
After pruning, apply a fungicide to the wounds left by the removed branches. The fungicide will help prevent the growth and spread of the canker fungus. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fungicide label and wear protective gear when applying it.
3. Improve Tree Health
Healthy apple trees are less susceptible to canker disease. Offer your apple tree proper nutrition by applying fertilizers during the growing season. Give your tree plenty of water and sunlight. Also, ensure the tree is protected from extreme temperatures, which can weaken the tree’s immune system.
4. Prune During the Right Time
Prune your apple trees when it’s dry. Pruning during wet weather provides the perfect conditions for canker disease to spread. Make sure you prune at the right time of the year to avoid encouraging canker’s growth.
5. Cut Infected Branches
It’s crucial to identify the canker disease’s symptoms early. Look out for cankers on the tree’s trunk and branches, which appear as dead, sunken areas. Also, pay attention to the leaves which may have spots, a sign of infection. Once you have identified the infected branches, cut them back to healthy wood, removing all the canker present.
In conclusion, canker disease is a problem that requires attention and care. After pruning apple trees, follow the tips listed above to control canker disease effectively. By taking the necessary precautions, you can reduce the spread of the disease and prolong your tree’s life.