Does a Peach Tree Need Sprays for Fungus and Insects?

Fungal Diseases

• Peach trees are susceptible to a number of fungal infections. For example, leaf curl is a fungus that causes leaf defoliation in the spring. Although it doesn't overtake a tree, it can diminish crop production. Both rhizopus and brown rot can jeopardize fruit development. Peach scab is another fungus type that results in imperfect fruit. You can prevent each fungus with fungicide applications.

Insects

• A number of pests such as borers, scale and mites infiltrate peach trees. They feed on the tree leaves, shoots, fruit and branches. You can usually see insect populations on the tree upon inspection. Large groups of insects can severely weaken and even kill peach trees. Control pests with an insecticide application.

Sprays

• Choose spray control methods that are effective at eliminating a range of fungi and insects. Apply endosulfan to peach trees to keep insect invaders at bay. But don't treat peach trees with an insecticide two to three weeks before harvest. Spray trees with captan or dormant oil sprays about every two weeks from May to July when the fungal threat is greatest. Completely cover the tree trunk and limbs with spray, but always avoid getting it on fruit. Closely adhere to the manufacturer's application guidelines.

Applicators

• It's essential to spray your peach trees regularly to produce quality peaches. For this reason, it's often worthwhile to invest in the right spray equipment to increase the effectiveness of your disease and pest management application. A backpack sprayer is usually satisfactory for treating one or two trees. However, an air-blast sprayer frequently provides better coverage when treating small orchard operations, and it's essential for orchard operations of 5 acres or more.

Prevention

• Regularly pruning diseased branches in the winter and early spring helps prevent fungal infection and insect invasion. Pruning is an ideal way to preserve a peach tree's overall soundness. Ridding a tree of excess branches enables light to penetrate and air to circulate, reducing moisture buildup amid foliage. Warm and damp conditions increase the chance of fungal growth, which you want to avoid. Never cut back branches in the summer, when the chance of wounding the tree is greatest. Fungal diseases and pests often infiltrate wounds.