Natural Solutions for Fruit Tree Viruses

Fruit trees are especially vulnerable to viruses. It can be very upsetting to see your entire orchard succumb to a virus you could prevent or cure. Although there are plenty of commercially-available antiviral options for your fruit trees, if you eat the fruit from your tree a more natural method may be more appealing to you.

Prevent Problems Before They Begin

Healthy trees are more able to resist infection from all types of sources. Prune your trees only in warm months since the combination of cold weather and open wounds can affect your fruit trees twice as hard, leaving them susceptible to viruses. Treat any open wounds on your trees with tree salves. Do not over-water your trees, since mold and mildew can help viruses to invade your trees. Pick up fallen fruit before it rots to prevent creating breeding grounds for viruses.

Treat the Soil

Use mulch to help your soil regulate its water content. Also, make sure you put healthy bacteria back into your soil regularly to help strengthen the soil and your trees. This helps your trees to be able to fight off harmful viruses and bacteria more easily because they are getting the nutrients they need. Earthworms, beneficial insects and mites all help to control harmful viruses. You can find them at home and garden supply stores.

Horticultural Soap and Oil

Horticultural soaps are made from natural ingredients and essential oils that help to clean and strengthen your trees. They also help to wash away harmful insects that may help viruses get a foothold in your trees. Horticultural oils help to kill viruses and bacteria and help your trees fight off all types of infestation.