During fruit tree bloom, it is critical not to spray insecticides. Insecticides can kill bees necessary for pollination and good fruit set. Insecticides can kill bees necessary for pollination and good fruit set. Black rot causes black spots on grape fruit, leaves and stems. If disease was present last year, begin fungicide applications with the emergence of the second leaf.
Insecticides can kill bees, which are necessary for pollination and good fruit set.
Check flowering trees for bee activity. Our wild bee populations have been greatly reduced by two mite pests. If you see no bees and have a poor fruit set this year, it may be due to lack of pollination. The only way to improve pollination for future years is to have a bee hive nearby. Brown rot on peaches, nectarines, plums and apricots is a common problem.