Tree Solutions

Great tutorial showing examples of how to properly-(rt. side) and
improperly-(left side) stake a tree. The stakes on the left are used to guide and support initial growth by the nursery growers. They should be completely removed prior to planting. Note how the tie is girdling this tree. This leads to several issues nobody wants to deal with.
The staking example on the right allows movement while growing which builds trunk strength and does not girdle the tree. Girdling injures the vascular system and creates weakness in trunk strength. This will be very important several years down the road.

Peach leaf curl, the bane of many back yard gardens.
In the fall season, the fungal spores become active when temperatures drop and the first rains begin. This is the perfect time for the first application. In spring, just before bud break is the time for a second application. Very important to have complete coverage of leaves, branches, and tree trunks.
We still have time to spray peach and nectarine trees to manage peach leaf curl in coastal California. UC IPM suggests using fixed copper products.
There is a real issue with regard to the build up of copper in soils after repeated applications.
**Copper alternative-Biological approach**
Compost tea or Liquid Compost extract applications.
*Timing*
1. Late fall
2. Early spring, just at bud break. (Important to spray before flower buds open)
3. Mid-summer.
For best results it is important to use only organic, completely finished compost. You can add kelp and fish hydrolysate at 1/4 strength to compost extract to help activate the microbes. Use on the same day you mix.
Solo makes a great diaphragm pump 4 gallon backpack sprayer. Important to use a diaphragm pump so to not harm the biology. Thorough coverage will yield best results!
There is a KNF based recipe that we use. If anyone is interested I'm happy to share mine.
https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7426.html?src=blog51317