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can have more or less resistance to certain diseases. A bit of research on the particular variety of fruit tree will show which diseases and pests a grower needs to keep an eye out for.

Many pests and diseases find refuge in fallen leaves and dropped fruit. Keeping the orchard floor clear of debris presents a neater looking orchard and keeps pest and disease problems down.

County extension offices have a wealth of information about diseases and pests in fruit trees, and how to prevent or control them. County extension agents can also identify many common disease problems in fruit trees from a sample of the affected leaf or stem. The contact information for county extension offices is in the County Government section of phone books, often listed under the name of the state university.

Fertilize with Caution
As long as a fruit tree is growing well, putting on about 15-30 inches of new growth in the first few non-bearing years and 8-15 inches of growth once the tree starts bearing, it probably does not need fertilizer at all. Fruit trees growing near a fertilized lawn will usually get all the nutrients they need from the lawn fertilizer.

Stake only When Necessary
Dwarf trees have naturally weaker root systems and will often need staking their whole lives to stand up to winds. Semi-dwarf and standard trees will grow stronger root systems if they are not staked.

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