As apple orchards gear up for another fruitful growing season, it’s important for growers to understand the various stages of fruit development and the appropriate spray treatments needed to protect their crop. In this article, we’ll explore the four main stages of fruit development in apple plants and provide information on the spray treatments required at each stage.
Stage 1: Dormancy
During the winter months, apple trees go through a period of dormancy. At this stage, they are leafless and their buds are closed, which can make it challenging to apply sprays uniformly. However, this is the ideal time to apply dormant sprays to control overwintering pests and diseases. The most common dormant spray treatments include lime sulfur or copper-based fungicides, which can be applied to the tree trunk, branches, and buds.
Stage 2: Pre-bloom
As spring arrives and temperatures begin to warm up, apple trees start to emerge from their dormant state. At this point, buds begin to swell and eventually break open into flowers. Pre-bloom is a critical stage in apple tree development because it sets the stage for the season’s fruit production. Growers must apply sprays during this period to control pests and diseases that can damage flowers or young fruit. The most common pre-bloom spray treatments include fungicides, insecticides, and mineral oils, all of which can protect against apple scab, powdery mildew, and other common diseases.
Stage 3: Bloom
During the bloom stage, apple trees are in full flower, and pollination occurs. At this point, it’s crucial to watch out for pests that can damage the flowers and prevent proper pollination. Common pests that can cause damage during bloom include codling moth, plum curculio, and oriental fruit moth. Growers can apply insecticides during bloom to protect against these pests and ensure successful pollination.
Stage 4: Post-bloom
After pollination, apple trees enter the post-bloom stage, during which young fruit begins to develop. At this point, it’s important to continue to protect against pests and diseases, as they can damage young fruit and reduce the overall yield. Common post-bloom sprays include insecticides, fungicides, and miticides. Growers may also choose to apply foliar fertilizers to help promote fruit development.
In conclusion, understanding the various stages of fruit development in apple plants is crucial to ensuring a successful growing season. Applying the right spray treatments at each stage is essential to protect against pests and diseases and promote healthy fruit production. With careful planning and attention to detail, apple growers can ensure a successful harvest year after year.