Do apple tree nets work?
by
Yaron
+16
Every year, fruit flies are all over the apples in my garden. I tried different traps but they weren't effective enough. I heard that there are nets that cover the tree, and than the flies cant get in. Any recommendations on whether these nests work well?
9 answers
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I live in Minnesota and our issue is bees on the apples. We have not covered our trees simply because they are large trees and I can't imagine how we would get a net over them. I am close to the U of Minnesota arboretum where they regularly produce new apple varieties and have never seen them cover their trees. Have you tried spraying the trees? There are a number of organic sprays available on the market which help repel insects. I'd try that first. Good Luck!
MN Mom
on Jan 10, 2016
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I have never heard of the method on covering fruit trees I think you would benefit more by applying a dormant oil spray specifally for fruit trees on a regular basis.
Janet Pizaro
on Jan 10, 2016
- See 1 previous
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Tree nets are only good to keep out critters and birds. When your trees are dormant in winter, spray them with Dormant Oil. If you have an infestation of fruit flies, you can also spray them directly, without harm to fruit, with a soapy mixture. The true old time favorite is Fels Naptha soap. Dissolve the soap in warm water, then add a few drops of peppermint. Put into a sprayer and spray away!!!
Rdnkwman
on Jan 10, 2016
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Yes, tree nets are designed to keep out birds. Bees and small flies just fly right through.
Gary Stenzel
on Jan 11, 2016
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Fruit flies are attracted to sweet (fruit) moist areas and will breed in compost, decaying leaves, overripe fruit and such. If you have very good soil under the apple tree the fruit flies will love you. This link has suggestions for the pesky beneficials in compost, it might give you some ideas. I used pie tins filled with vinegar and honey which reduced the problem by drawing them away. http://myzerowaste.com/2009/05/compost-awareness-week-swarms-of-fruit-flies/
KathyM
on Jan 11, 2016
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I've never heard of this - interesting!
Miriam Illions
on Jan 11, 2016
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Just last night I was wondering the same thing because squirrels eat more apples than we do.
Kip
on Jan 11, 2016
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Did you try the nets?
Shira
on Jan 19, 2016
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Hello! Try Japanese apple bags. I use them on my apple tree and they work like a charm. Good luck! http://www2.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/ef218.asp
Bryan's Workshop
on Jan 27, 2016
- See 5 previous
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