Philadelphia Orchard Project

Late April orchard updates!

1. Some apricots survived the spring frost season and are already 1”+ in size! Sadly, this fruitlet is also showing the small crescent shaped scar of plum curculio, our most challenging orchard insect pest.

2. Peach leaf curl in full effect! This common fungal disease impacts most peach trees in the city, although there are some resistant cultivars. Best control is a dormant season copper spray.

3. We have noted web worm in a few orchards this spring. Although not usually a major orchard pest, they can defoliate parts of trees. Physically removing with a stick is a pretty easy control method if they are within reach.

4. Our unusually cold winter caused some significant winter damage on some figs depending on their location. Many are now starting to sprout and regrow- cut off the dead wood above where they sprout!

5. Microclimate makes a huge difference for figs. Those in protected locations are showing some early Breba fruitlets forming despite the harsh winter.