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Weed management/apple tree spray #870327

Asked May 27, 2024, 7:41 PM EDT

Hi, I have 2 gardening questions. 1. What is best to prevent weeds in a raspberry patch and strawberry garden? 2. What is the best organic spray for apple trees to prevent bugs/birds?

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi Robbie, thanks for the question.

Unfortunately, there is no silver bullet for weeds in raspberries.  If you are looking for an herbicide, a preemergent works well on annuals weeds and glyphosate works well on perennials.  Glyphosate can work with a wick applicator or using something to be sure you do not get any on the raspberries. Whatever is used must be listed to be used around raspberries/edible fruit and be labeled for the weeds you encounter. Alternatively (cultivating (no more that 2-3 inches deep) and hand pulling weeds works.

For basic pests, kaolin clay applications are a good option for the insect pests.  Bird netting is effective if they are after the fruit.  If they are feeding off insects, let them be.  

Weed management in raspberries | UMN Extension

How can I control weeds in my raspberries? | Yard and Garden (iastate.edu)

Home-Fruit-Insecticide.pdf (wisc.edu)

Insect Pests - Cooperative Extension: Tree Fruits - University of Maine Cooperative Extension (umaine.edu)

Home-Fruit-Insecticide.pdf (wisc.edu)

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 30, 2024, 10:59 PM EDT

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