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Its the first year my Honeycrisp apple tree has apples, how do I protect the apples? #873314

Asked June 16, 2024, 1:05 PM EDT

It is the first year that my Honeycrisp apple tree had lots of blossoms and now baby apples.  So far it appears the bugs have not found this tree yet, but I'm certain that won't last.  What should I start spraying them with and how often.  Should I fertilize and with what?  I also found mesh bags on Amazon that you can put around each apple.  I wonder if those would keep the bugs and birds out.  Due to fencing, deer cannot get into my yard but squirrels and rabbits live close by.    Thank you in advance for your guidance and expertise.  

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi David, 

Thank you for reaching out! Yes, apples are very tasty for us and for pests too. Long term, fertilization is absolutely important. I would recommend a soil test through MSUE to determine the needs of your soil to fertilize accordingly (Home | MSU Soil Test). 

I attached a few resources below. The Cornell Guide to Growing Fruit is a great resource for both horticulture and pest management. I also included both an organic and more conventional integrated pest management guide that will walk you through the key pests and timings much better than I can summarize in an email.

Best wishes with your apples,

Lindsay Brown Replied June 17, 2024, 1:55 PM EDT

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