Spring is on its way and with that comes the list of spring chores. Some can be left undone or put off to a later date with very little consequence, but there are chores that need to be done on time in
order for them to be affective.
Pruning is one chore that needs to be done on time, and another that is essential in a tree/shrubs health is applying lime sulphur and dormant oil, which is a combination spray that kills many overwintering insects and disease.
This is important, as many of the chemicals that were available years ago to treat tree/shrub problems are no longer available, and so you want to be able to prevent any problems from arising as they could be harder to treat later in the season.
Lime sulphur and dormant oil is applied to all deciduous shade trees, fruit trees, small fruits, flowering and ornamental shrubs and roses.
Apply in the early spring before the tree/shrub break into leaf. I like to tell people to apply the oil after you have finished pruning as there is no need to treat the branches that are going to be removed.
Timing is important when using this combination spray. Plants need to be dormant as the oil can cause damage if used when the leaves break out. This is why it is called dormant oil.
Temperature also plays an important role in when to apply the spray. It has to be a mild day with temperatures staying above freezing. Apply early in the day so that there is enough time for the spray to dry.
Considered organic by some gardeners because both the lime sulphur and dormant oil occur naturally. Oils have been used by farmers and gardeners for hundreds of years before chemical pesticides were ever available.
Oil is a contact insecticide meaning that it has to have contact with the insect or egg as it suffocates the eggs and overwintering insects. Insects including the beneficial ones that migrate to the tree/shrub later will not be affected.
The lime sulphur helps kill or prevent the spread of fungal spores that lead to disease.
To make it easy the spray comee in a box labelled Dormant Spray Kit.
The bottle of lime sulphur is twice the size of the horticultural oil because when you mix the two together you mix one part oil to two parts lime sulphur and then the water.
Only mix what you are going to use, and use it immediately after it has been mixed because it will separate. Any type of
sprayer will work.
When spraying, start from the top and work down, making sure that all surfaces of the plant are coated. It is always important to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer when using any product.
You want to be careful by never spraying on a windy day and to always wear protective clothing, goggles, and gloves. You also want to be careful when spraying around pavement and other structures as this
product can cause stains.
Protect all your deciduous trees and shrubs by applying Dormant oil and Lime Sulphur over the next couple of weeks. Being proactive now will save you from being reactive later.
Reminder: The 31st annual tree pruning clinic is being held at Art Knapp Plantland, Kimball road location only. Saturday March 31, 10 a.m and Sunday April 1, 12 p.m. There is a $10 charge which will be donated to the Child Development Center.
