How Do You Protect Apple Trees from Pests

Pick up and destroy fallen fruit, which may contain grubs. Remove plastic and paper tree guards, where adult flies and moths may spend the winter; replace them with wire mesh guards. Surround trees with mulch instead of grass.

What can you spray on fruit trees to keep bugs off?

Gardening stores often sell insecticidal soap sprays, but you can make your own. Experts at Oregon State University recommend mixing 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of dishwashing soap per cup of water. This spray will help with aphids, mites, scales and other insects that have very small breathing holes.

What is the best pesticide for apple trees?

Horticultural oil is a well known insecticide for application during a tree’s dormant period to prevent unintended harm to beneficial insects such as bees and ladybugs. The University of California recommends spraying apple trees with dormant oil in the winter to control San Jose scale, and aphid and mite eggs.