When and How to Spray Plum Trees for Pests

16.07.2023 - 23:25 / gardenerspath.com / Kristine Lofgren

Growing fruit trees isn’t always easy. The pests, the late freezes, and the skill necessary to prune them right can feel a bit overwhelming.

It’s especially frustrating when someone gives you vague advice like “prune regularly” or “spray in the spring for pests.”

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Spraying plum trees for pests requires precision, both to ensure that you take out the invaders that you’re gunning for, and so you don’t harm any wildlife that you didn’t intend to eradicate.

You can find more information on the basic ins and outs of growing your own plums in our article.

In this guide, we’ll explain how and when exactly to treat your plum trees for the best effect without unintended consequences.

We’ll break it down clearly so you won’t be left scratching your head wondering what you’re doing. Here’s what’s ahead:

To begin, there are two different types of spraying that you might need to do. The first is on a preventative schedule, and the second is in reaction to an infestation.

Preventative spraying is done on a set schedule regardless of whether there are pests around or not. Treatment is applied as needed when pests are present.

You can follow a preventative schedule for your plum trees if you’ve had pest problems in the past or if you want to try to avoid them altogether. Treatments are only applied when necessary.

Keep in mind that you should try to limit spraying insecticides to avoid unintended consequences like harming bees, fish, or other wildlife.

Work towards creating a balanced, healthy garden that fosters natural predators and pollinators, and you’ll