Apple Scab Fungicide Timing: Bloom Protection and Organic Options

Apple Scab Fungicide Timing: Bloom Protection and Organic Options

When to spray fungicide for apple scab? Best pesticide for scab control?

Timing

• Spray from bud swell until 30 days before harvest.
• Do NOT spray during bloom (bees active) – harms pollinators, prevents fruit set.
• If fruit set and no leaf spots, further sprays may not be needed.

Sanitation

Remove fallen leaves (scab overwinters on them). Clean orchard reduces inoculum.

Organic Active Ingredients

• Captan
• Neem oil (native to India!)
• Sulfur / Lime sulfur – avoid in high heat (burns leaves).

Check labels for these actives. Rainy weather worsens scab.