apple tree pests - Ask Extension
what methods are there to control apple tree pests with fewer chemicals?
Knowledgebase
apple tree pests #926825
Asked March 26, 2026, 2:26 PM EDT
what methods are there to control apple tree pests with fewer chemicals?
Marion County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Barbara,
Thank you for contacting us about reducing chemical sprays for your apple trees. This OSU publications may give you the information you have requested.
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/ec-631-managing-diseases-insects-home-orchards
See the section for "Managing diseases and insects without using pesticides".
The real key to managing chemical use is to use the right spray at the right time, and exactly as directed on the label. See the section "Pest and disease management for apples".
This includes:
Thank you for contacting us about reducing chemical sprays for your apple trees. This OSU publications may give you the information you have requested.
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/ec-631-managing-diseases-insects-home-orchards
See the section for "Managing diseases and insects without using pesticides".
The real key to managing chemical use is to use the right spray at the right time, and exactly as directed on the label. See the section "Pest and disease management for apples".
This includes:
- Dormant oil (before bud break in spring) for control of aphids, mites and scale pests as well as overwintering fungal and bacterial diseases.
- Copper sprays (late winter between Feb. and March; and in autumn when leaves fall but before the rains begin) to control fungal diseases during the growing season.
- Sulfur spray (January to March) for mildews, leaf spots, rust and other fungal disease. Important: Do not use sulfur within 2 weeks of using dormant oil or copper sprays.
