Fruit trees are one of the seasonal pleasures we look forward to each summer. Everything from apples and pears, to peaches, oranges, and more, the summertime fruit yields are extraordinarily sweet and satisfying. But the problem with these trees is common pests. Not only do we enjoy the fruits we grow on trees, insects and wildlife love them even more! In order to protect fruit trees from nuisance pest interference, you must take certain precautions into consideration and apply some helpful practices into your standard tree care routine.
Continue reading to learn how you can stop nuisance pests from destroying your fruit trees, year after year.
How to Protect Fruit Trees in Summertime
Wildlife Tampering
Pests of all kinds, including wildlife, are problematic for fruit trees. If over harvested, the tree can struggle to perform well the next season, rendering fruit smaller and less ripe. Try installing metal tree wraps around the base of your fruit trees to make it difficult (or near impossible) for wildlife to grip the trunk and climb the tree.
You can also consider installing chicken wire, fencing, electronic sound machines, and motion-lighting. It is also helpful to place moth balls or sprinkle cayenne pepper and cinnamon around your trees. Pests like raccoons and squirrels hate these smells. Just be careful using ground pepper on your lawn if you have dogs and cats.
Pests and Disease
Unfortunately, fruit trees are incredibly delicate, and they are highly vulnerable to pathogens, fungal infections, and diseases. As they move toward their dormant season, hazardous pathogens burrow within the bark, and then mature when the weather gets warmer. This prevents trees from blooming and growing properly, thus eliminating its wonderful yields.
Another problem for fruit trees is anthracnose, or tree cankers. Apple trees seem to be a common target. Anthracnose is caused by several types of organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. An initial sign of anthracnose is dead tree bark, while extreme conditions lead to tree decline and fatalities. If it does not kill a fruit tree overtime, it weakens it enough to make it susceptible to other fatal tree conditions.
Tree Treatments
You can have your trees sprayed annually with a chemical repellent that works to prevent pest interference. These are safe for the environment and for trees and are proven methods of insect and pest control in extreme cases. This coupled with proper tree care can protect your trees all season long! Just be sure to choose a reputable tree service for outstanding results at a fair price.
Would you like some professional advice and guidance for your trees? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers.
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