How To Protect Apple Trees From Diseases?

How to protect apple trees from diseases is a question many home gardeners and farmers ask. The question usually arises when a tree is newly planted in the landscape. A healthy tree requires periodic pest control, otherwise it will quickly take over the area in which it is planted. Apple tree disease can cause serious damage to your apple tree. Here are some of the most common types of pests that affect your tree.

1. Apply Insecticides

Mites, also known as ants, are the most common type of pest that affects an apple tree. They feed on the sap that comes out of the tree and thus affect its ability to produce good fruit. The main problem is that they are easily attracted to the scent of the fruit. If the tree is in poor condition or is infected with mites, the quality of the apples produced will also be affected. To control the population of these pests, make sure you remove their existing habitats and apply insecticides.

2. Cut Down Old And Weak Trees

Pests like bark beetles, which live in the bark, can also infect your tree. This type of pest can quickly destroy a tree, even young ones. How to protect them? Cut down old trees that are weak and old, or eliminate the tree completely if you have no other choice. If you have a healthy tree, the problem should be solved by natural means.

3. Water Your Tree Daily

Fungi are another common pest that affects your apple tree. These insects need moisture, so you will need to water your tree often to prevent them from growing. How to protect them? If the tree has some sort of trunk leak or a crack, treat the area with a fungicide.

4. Keep Tree At Moderate Temperature

Damp, hot weather can kill your tree. It is important to keep your tree dry, but do not over-water it. When the weather gets really hot, you can put some soap on the branches to help alleviate the drying stress. If you protect your tree during these times, you will have an easier time with keeping it healthy.

5. Don’t Put Weed Anywhere Near Your Tree

Mites and beetles pose another challenge when it comes to dealing with pests. They are very small insects, but can cause major damage to your apple tree. How to protect against them? Keep your yard well-maintained, don’t allow excessive amounts of weeds to sprout around the base, and check regularly for parasites.

6. Applying Organic Pesticides

Some types of pests can be more of a threat than others. There are larger pests that eat the bark, such as termites. You can get termite treatment at a local home improvement store. There are also organic or natural pesticides available if you prefer not to use chemicals.

7. Remove Any Insect From Tree

How to protect your apple tree from pests doesn’t only involve knowing how to keep them away, but also knowing when to pull a weed. If you see a spider or some other crawling insect or worm on your tree, remove it immediately. This way, you don’t damage the apple tree. Pulling weeds causes stress for the tree, which can cause the disease to spread through the root system. Do this as soon as you see the pests, if not, wait a few days to do it.

8. Always Wear Gloves During Removal Of Any Harmful Thing From Tree

Your knowledge of how to protect apple tree from insects and disease also includes keeping yourself safe from them. Wear gloves when mowing, and always wash your clothes before and after use. Get rid of infested clothes by flushing them down the toilet or garbage bin. If you are not able to flush them, put them in heavy trash bags and throw them in the trash nearby your home.

9. Conclusion

How to protect apple trees from pests doesn’t only apply to apple tree diseases and insects. It applies to preventative measures that will keep your apple tree healthy so that it will continue to produce fresh, juicy apples for you to enjoy for years to come. Protecting your tree with such knowledge will ensure that you can enjoy the fruits of your labor without worrying about its health.