How to care for your fruit trees in winter
Autumn and Winter: Essential Preparation Time for Growing Summer Fruits
Autumn and winter are crucial seasons to prepare for a bountiful harvest of fruits like apples, pears, and nectarines, as well as other fruits, in the following summer. Proper care during these months sets the stage for healthy trees and abundant yields.
Step 1: Fertilizing Your Fruit Trees
Start by applying a general feed of Growmore fertilizer around the base of your fruit trees. Sprinkle one handful of fertilizer evenly over a square metre beneath the tree.
If your fruit trees are planted in a lawn or grassy area, carefully remove some of the grass around the tree’s base. Be cautious not to damage the tree’s stem or trunk. After clearing the grass, sow some calendula seeds. As a companion plant, calendula attracts beneficial insects that can support your fruit trees. The seeds will germinate in spring, making this a great step for both trees and other fruit shrubs in your garden.
Step 2: Apply Grease Bands in Early Autumn
In September and October, attach grease bands to the main stem of your trees. These bands prevent crawling insects, such as winter moths, from climbing up the stem into the tree during the colder months. For more detailed information about grease bands, check out this resource:
Grease Bands and Tree Barrier Glues.
Step 3: Winter Wash for Pest and Disease Control
Once the leaves have fallen from the tree, choose a frost-free day to apply a winter wash. Using a small sprayer, apply the winter wash as a jet that runs down the stems. This helps eliminate overwintering pest eggs and fungal spores.
Vitax Winter Wash is an organic option, but if your tree experienced heavy pest infestations during the summer, you may need to apply the wash twice during the winter months.
Step 4: Prune and Protect
While applying the winter wash, take the opportunity to prune the tree’s long summer shoots. Prune these shoots back to 3–4 buds. This step, combined with the winter wash, promotes healthier growth and fruit production.
By following these simple steps, you’ll give your fruit trees the best chance to thrive and deliver a rewarding harvest next summer!