The Gardener's Almanac

Overview ;

This is a time when when vigilance is necessary to contend with the numerous pests and diseases that can be can be prevalent in the fruit garden at this time of the year.

 

Week No. 23 - 3rd to 9th

 

• Control weeds by shallow hoeing, and remove suckers from Plum & Damson trees.

 

• Apply slug bait to deter damage to strawberry fruits, and net plants to protect them from birds.

 

• Feed containerised fruit trees.

 

• Be on the look out for pests and diseases.

 

 

Week No. 24 - 10th to 16th

 

• Prune Red & White currants.

 

• Thin out grape bunches.

 

• Ensure that Peach / Nectarine trees are not drying out!

 

• Continue picking Rhubarb stems from unforced plants for a few more weeks, then leave plants to replenish their reserves.

 

• Watch out for developing flower stems on Rhubarb plants and cut them away at the base as soon as they are visible.

 

Week No. 25 - 17th to 23rd

 

• Harvest Strawberries as they become ripe.

 

• Thin out peach / nectarines, this can improve the size and quality of those that are left to grow on.

 

Week No. 26 - 24th to 30th

 

• Apply a systemic fungicide to Apple trees to deter mildew, and scab.

 

• Spray Blackberry, Loganberry, Raspberry, Tayberry, to prevent cane spot disease.

 

• Keep an eye out for signs of Wooly aphid on Apple trees.

 

• Protect Plum & Damson trees from birds and wasps.

 

• Feed Peach / Nectarine trees.

 

• Thin fruit on Pear trees.