-
A fruit tree loses its leaves in the fall, has no foliage during winter, and is just beginning to show the start of leaf development in the spring. A dormant spray is so called because it is applied when the plants and trees are in their dormant, resting stage. Dormant sprays effectively kill fungus and diseases that are trapped and growing in the bark, cracks and crevices of your fruit trees. Dormant oil is used to basically suffocate insects and eggs of pests in your tree before the pests wake up from their winter sleep.
There are several chemicals, all classified as organic, that are used for dormant spraying and all are effective. These are usually combined with a dormant oil for easy application, since both can be applied at the same time. Dormant oils and sprays are found at your local garden center or home improvement store. Read the label carefully to select the one that will fit your situation. Also, follow the mixing instructions exactly, as too much or too strong a solution will harm your fruit tree as much as the diseases and pests you are trying to get rid of will. -
Dormant sprays need to be applied when the leaves are off the fruit tree. The first spraying should be in the late fall. Most gardeners use spray their fruit trees around Thanksgiving. This fall spraying is like a protective coat for your tree. It inhibits disease spores from being blown by the wind to unaffected trees and plants. Be sure to apply the spray as directed on the label, and choose a windless, dry day when rain is not in the immediate forecast.
If you live where the winters are on the mild side, you should spray your fruit trees again around Christmas. Again, select a day when the wind is not blowing and there is no threat of rain or snow in the forecast for the next few days. This midwinter dormant spray application is the least critical, and, therefore, in harsher winter climates it can be skipped.
Your final, and most important, application of dormant spray and oil needs to be in the late winter or early spring. In most areas, Valentine's Day is the perfect time. The key is to apply this spray before your fruit tree has formed buds. The beginning of leaf formation is the ideal time, but if your fruit tree has already formed its flowering buds, it will be too late. Spraying dormant spray when your fruit tree is flowering will kill the bees that are there to pollinate your tree and the result will be little or no fruit.
