The benefits of winter washing fruit trees and rose

Winter washing fruit trees and roses is a beneficial practice that helps in controlling pests and diseases during the dormant season. Here are the key benefits and steps to perform winter washing:

Benefits:
1. Pest Control: Winter washing helps remove insect debris, dust, and wax, which insects use to secure their eggs onto the plants. This helps control overwintering pests such as aphid eggs, larvae, and nymphs of insects like greenfly, blackfly, and whitefly.

2. Disease Prevention: By clearing the plant of pests and their eggs, winter washing reduces the risk of fungal infections and pest infestations in the spring.

3. Organic Gardening: Products like Vitax Winter Tree Wash are suitable for organic gardening and can be used on both edible and ornamental crops, including fruit trees and roses.

How to Perform Winter Washing:
1. Timing: Apply the winter wash during the dormant period, preferably from November through to February. Treat after leaf fall and before bud break in the spring.

2. Preparation: Mix 1 part of Winter Wash concentrate with 5 parts water in a garden sprayer.

3. Application: Thoroughly spray all foliage and stems of the plants, paying particular attention to the crooks of branches or stems where pests may rest.

4. Conditions: Apply during calm, dry conditions and avoid application when temperatures are above 85°F.

5. Repeat: For best results, repeat every 7-10 days until the desired temperatures are reached.

For more detailed information on using Vitax Winter Tree Wash, you can refer to the Main GardenAdvice website

. By following these steps, you can help ensure your fruit trees and roses remain healthy and ready for vibrant growth in the spring.