Worms/Bugs in Pears/Apples?

[Charliec]

I have a Pear tree and an Apple tree - and this past year, I had worms or bugs drilling into the fruit. I know I need to spray with something around February to prevent the worms/bugs (I assume it is caused by worms/bugs), but do not know what spray is most effective.

Can some with experience with this, advise me on this?

Thanks Charliec

****************************************************** Charliec

[sherwindu]

Not sure what climate zone you are in, but winter or early spring is the time to spray with dormant oil to smother the eggs of various insects.

You probably are under attack by Codling Moths. The best time to spray for them is just after petal fall. Follow through with spraying in two week intervals or longer, depending on the amount of the infestation.

Apple maggot is another boring type of pest and the best time to spray for them is late June to mid-August.

I find the most effective spray is Imidan, which is somewhat controled for the home orchard market. Another good insecticide is Sevin, but I find that Imidan really knocks them out.

Don't forget to wear protective clothing with these strong sprays, and wait for a calm day with no rain in the forecast for a few days. I mix in a 'sticker' to increase the retention of these sprays on the trees.

Sherwin

[Charliec]

Thanks for the advise - I will look into that - I'm in San Francisco and it's the rainy season now, so spraying is out for now. I'm hoping to spray in early Feb, 2008.

Thanks again Charliec

****************************************************** Charliec