Mothballs Produced on Apple or Peach Trees

Apple and peach trees would be the target of many damaging insects that may assault the trees and ruin the fruit. The use of synthetic or organic pesticides eliminates a breeding place and protects all trees in the area. But pesticides are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency in the USA. Using a registered pesticide in a manner not given on the label is illegal.

Common Pests

There are lots of common apple and peach tree pests that could be controlled with the right pesticides. Aphids, moths, worms, maggots and mites all assault apple trees in most areas. Peach trees are also attacked by borers, moths and tiny insects known as scales that sit down on leaves and stems. Applying pesticides for some of these pests begins before the leaf buds break and continues in various types up to 21 days before harvest.

Mothballs

Mothballs are made with registered pesticides, either napthalene or paradichlorobenzene. They evaporate to a poisonous gas that will kill moths and fabric-eating insects when concentrated in air-tight containers. The tag on mothballs specifies that they must only be used in tightly closed containers where people will not have permanent exposure. The limitations on the tag mean it is illegal to use mothballs outdoors in purple or apple trees, where they could contaminate soil and harm children interested in their scent and shape.

Paradichlorobenzene Flakes

Some pesticide products specified for peach tree borers do contain paradichlorobenzene flakes. These otherwise labeled products can be used to control insects in coral trees, but shouldn’t be substituted with mothballs. The crystals are applied to the ground around the back of this tree to fumigate the insects as soon as they have drilled to the tree. A constant circle of crystals across the back can be applied 2 inches wide and 1 inch away from the bark. A maximum of 6 tablespoons should be used on big trees, but only 1 or 2 tablespoons on a tree within its initial two years. The dirt where the crystals are applied should be eliminated after 3 weeks.

Pest Control

Regular spraying of apple and peach trees at the house garden is recommended. Complete management of diseases and insects requires as many as seven or eight distinct sprays at distinct stages of fruit and budding development. Preemptive action can be taken against insects like removing dead wood from the tree, clearing dropped or diseased fruit and thinning fruit therefore that adult fruit do not touch each other. Integrated responses such as introducing ladybugs can also assist. Non-toxic alternatives to controlling deer and mammal pests include tying little bars of soap produced of tallow around the tree or using mint oils mixed with garlic and pepper.

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