| My Alberta peach tree has a gum like substance hanging from the branches. Also, the fruit grows only half way then splits open. I would like to know how to take care of this problem. What do you recommend? |
| It is difficult to diagnose a problem without seeing it, but Peach borer injury usually shows up as a sap oozing from the tree, or an amber-like bubble (hardened sap) on the trunk or crotches. The hardened sap will cover an insect hole that may be filled with frass or a sawdust matter. The bark will feel loose in the area around the injury. Tunnels will be present beneath the bark when it is peeled back or whittled away. The Peach Tree Borer is white and about an inch long. It works on the tree close to the ground. Adult moths appear in July and August, lay eggs and damage occurs soon thereafter as eggs hatch into larva. Peaches that split indicate a cultural or disease problem. Rather than guessing at the cause, why not take a sample of the affected fruit to your local Cooperative Extension office? Helpful folks there can determine the causes of the problems and recommend treatment and control options. Best wishes with your peach tree! |
