Spray Before Harvesting in Apple Crop – Why is it Necessary?
As apple orchards approach harvest time, growers need to take certain precautions to ensure that their produce is healthy and well-preserved. One of the most important practices is to spray crops with the appropriate chemicals before harvesting. The spray helps to control pests and diseases, prevent fruit drop, and improve fruit quality.
Here are some reasons why spraying before harvesting is necessary:
1. Pest Control
Pests such as codling moths, mites, and aphids can damage apple crops, causing yield loss and ultimately affecting the quality of the fruit. Spraying with the appropriate chemical insecticide helps to control these pests, preventing significant damage.
2. Disease Control
Another significant threat to apple crops is disease. Various fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, apple scab, and fire blight can affect apple trees, causing brown or black spots on the fruit, leaves, and twigs. Applying fungicides before harvest can help prevent disease and improve overall fruit quality.
3. Fruit Drop Control
Apple fruit drop can occur due to various reasons such as stress or pest infestations. Applying natural hormone regulators before harvest can help reduce fruit drop, allowing growers to harvest healthy, intact fruit.
4. Improved Fruit Quality
Spraying before harvest can also help improve the quality of the fruit. In addition to pest and disease control, growers can use products such as calcium chloride to reduce incidences of “bitter pit,” which affects the texture and taste of the fruit.
The type of spray and application timing may vary depending on the apple variety, climate, and pest pressure. Therefore, it is essential for growers to consult with local extension agents or crop consultants to make appropriate decisions when it comes to pre-harvest spray applications.
In conclusion, pre-harvest spraying is an essential practice for apple growers to improve fruit quality, prevent pests and diseases, and reduce fruit drop. While it is vital to use the right product and application strategy, spraying must be done responsibly to prevent harm to humans and the environment.