As we enter June, a plethora of pests launches into 'action' in our apple and pear orchards!
Mowing, Tying tree tops, thinning, dealing with 'early season pests' - Rosy apple aphid and Pear sucker are high on the list. But spraying to control apple scab and mildew are a vital part of our routine 'pest control'
Below: AC Goatham & Sons - Tractor Driver mowing looking down on orchards at Gore Farm Upchurch

Operative at AC Goatham tying the tops of trees in one of their orchards. Trees are kept at 3m high and right. Ladybirds making love while feeding (predation) on rosy apple aphids


Below: Left and right. fruitlets are now growing beyond the stage where fruit thinning sprays are effective (8-12 mm)



The English Apple Man Comments
I intended to deal with these "Pesky Pests" but scrolling back a year, I found a comprehensive version which matches well this time of year so instead of writing it all again, this week I draw readers attention to ................
Written last June please read.....
June is a busy month, pesky pests, thinning, mowing, orchard maintenance, irrigation decisions and maintenance!
That is all for this week
Take care
The English Apple Man