Fruit Bites April 13th Apple Scab & Powdery Mildew

BL: Welcome back to another “Fruit Bites” brought to you by Valent U.S.A. Joining us as always is Valent’s Allison Walston. And this week Allison, we are talking about apple scab and powdery mildew!

AW: It’s time for your first apple scab and powdery mildew sprays as pink and petal fall timings approach in apples.

BL: So, tell us a little bit about apple scab

AW: scab is in areas that have early-season, cool, wet weather. Blackish scabs grow on the leaves and fruit and impacts the quality. Key time to control scab is by targeting the primary infection that occurs through petal fall.

BL: And, what about apple powdery mildew?

AW: Powdery mildew is most problematic in spring & early summer, dry areas and with temperatures in the high 60s. Powdery mildew is ready to attack freshly emerging tissue, which stunts new growth and reduces fruit set. Key timing for control is bud break thru the early season. Controlling powdery mildew in young trees is especially important to protect new growth.

BL: The more you know, thanks Allison. Join us again next time for Fruit Bites, brought to you by Valent. Until then, I’m Bob Larson.