Spots on apples - Ask Extension
We have 2 apple trees, a Sweet Sixteen and a Zestar, side by side that develop severe spots on the fruit about this time of year, every year. We live...
Knowledgebase
Spots on apples #872886
Asked June 12, 2024, 9:47 PM EDT
We have 2 apple trees, a Sweet Sixteen and a Zestar, side by side that develop severe spots on the fruit about this time of year, every year. We live near Dassel in central Minnesota. The spots usually form indentations that result in deformed fruit at harvest. Additional information...the trees are near a chicken run, so nitrogen levels are likely high. Can you help with identifying and mitigating our problem?
Meeker County Minnesota
Expert Response
The spots are probably evidence of feeding and/or egg laying by tiny weevils called curculios. These insects become active in orchards shortly after petal fall, so control measures must be taken early in the season.
Go here to learn about curculios (especially note the section "options for backyard and small orchards"):
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/plum-curculio-2/
The chicken run might be an asset because plucky hens are likely to catch and eat any curculios that come their way.
Go here to learn about curculios (especially note the section "options for backyard and small orchards"):
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/plum-curculio-2/
The chicken run might be an asset because plucky hens are likely to catch and eat any curculios that come their way.
