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Tiny apples with damage #880432

Asked August 06, 2024, 3:48 PM EDT

Hello, A client came in presenting very small Honey Crisp apples with what appears to be bug damage that carries through to the inside of the apple. The client stated she sprayed the trees with Neem oil several times at the beginning of spring and the same trees produced large, beautiful apples last season. Any ideas or thoughts on cause and solution would be appreciated! Thank you!

Antrim County Michigan

Expert Response

This is catfacing damage caused by stinkbugs or another insect with a piercing-sucking mouthpart. Neem oil is only effective for less than 24 hours and would do little to stop damage from a highly mobile insect such as a stinkbug. Stinkbug damage tends to be more noticeable later in the season, and unfortunately there aren't great options to prevent this. 
David Lowenstein Replied August 06, 2024, 9:56 PM EDT

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