Spraying.
Spraying is the third tier in sustainable fruit production.  After fertility and pruning have been addressed, spraying should be considered to improve crop quality and overall tree health.  This input can bring fruit quality up dramatically and keep that fruit protected during the highest levels of pest and disease pressure.  Once a good fruit set is achieved and covered with the appropriate spray materials, thinning is the fourth level of management to consider.  This means removing any weak, damaged, or crowded fruits to allow more room  and energy for the best and biggest ones to grow.

Organic.
Organic and ecological fruit production is a way to improve quality and output without harming the environment uneccesarily. Non toxic repellants are the best place to start with stronger materials used only when needed.  High quality, nutritious fruit can be easily grown on a small scale without the use of chemical sprays.

Young apples that have been sprayed with kaolin clay to repel insects.

     High Hopes Orchards maintains a commercial pesticide applicators license and has invested in the equipment necessary to spray your orchard and fruit plantings.  We use strictly organic and ecological materials in our orchard and are committed to doing the same in yours.  One time sprays or all season care contracts are available, please contact us if you are interested in this service.  If you would like to do your own spraying but need coaching or advice, let us know and we can help design a custom spray program for you to follow.