Dormant Oil Tips
One of the most common questions we get throughout the year is, “How do I get rid of the insects or fungus on my trees & shrubs?” Wouldn’t it be great if there were a way to PREVENT these pests instead of having to deal with them in the warm weather of spring and summer? Guess what! There is!
When to Apply Dormant Oil
The best time to apply Dormant Oil is in early spring before leaf buds begin to open. Take a close look at your trees and shrubs as the weather starts to warm up. If buds are still closed and dormant, it’s the perfect time to spray. This early application helps eliminate overwintering pests and fungal spores before they become active, giving your plants a healthier start to the growing season.
What is Dormant Oil?
Dormant Oil is a preventative spray that protects your plants from insects and fungal diseases that have settled in to overwinter on them. Spraying Dormant Oil at the right time will kill off any lingering bugs or diseases, giving your plants a better chance at a healthy season!
How to Apply Dormant Oil
Applying Dormant Oil is a simple process. Pick up your Dormant Oil Spray Kit, which includes horticultural oil and lime sulfur. Mix 2 parts lime sulfur and 1 part horticultural oil to create a powerful treatment for overwintering insects and diseases.
Apply the dormant oil on a dry day when the temperature is above 5 degrees Celsius. Choose a calm morning to spray, ensuring enough time for the oil to dry before any risk of freezing. Be sure to cover all parts of the plant, including the undersides of leaves and branches.
Best Practices for Applying Dormant Oil
- Timing is Key: Apply in early spring before buds open, when temperatures are above freezing.
- Inspect Your Trees & Shrubs: Check for overwintering pests before buds start to break.
- Check the Forecast: Avoid rain within 24 hours after application.
- Choose the Right Product: Select a suitable dormant oil for your plants and pests.
- Read Instructions: Follow label directions for dilution rates and application methods.
- Protect Yourself: Wear protective gear like gloves and eyewear.
- Apply Evenly: Use a sprayer for thorough coverage, including the undersides.
- Choose Calm Days: Apply on windless days to prevent drift.
- Time of Day Matters: Apply in the morning to allow enough time for drying.
- Monitor Results: Keep an eye on plants for effectiveness and any adverse effects.
- Repeat as Needed: Reapply according to label instructions if necessary.
The Dormant Spray Kit will include specific instructions for how much spray to mix for each type of plant.
