One of the perks of having deciduous fruit trees and shrubs that lose all their leaves in winter is the ability to more easily prune the plants and treat overwintering pests and diseases. Our “go to” reference is the UC IPM website. Because each fruit tree, shrub or vine variety tends to have a specific pruning/feeding/spraying regimen, it’s best to start here: http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/fruit.html.
We are happy to make specific recommendations, and can help you select the best products, tools, and application method for your situation. As always, we look for the least toxic pesticides, which fits with the IPM approach. That includes non-chemical practices like removing fallen leaves, keeping plants healthy by feeding and mulching to protect roots.
Spraying at least once during this window of opportunity will help to ensure your home orchard produces farmers’ market-worthy fruit that you can’t wait to bite into… and prize-worthy flowers!
http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/rose.html
