Tree Fruit Edition

Seasonal updates on insects, diseases, weeds, maturity dates and cultural practices impacting only tree fruit.
 
Subscriptions are available via EMAIL and RSS.

April 27, 2026

South Jersey Wine Grape Twilight

When:     May 20 (Wed) 5:00 PM
Where:    Saddlehill Winery and Vineyards: 1407 White Horse Rd, Voorhees Township, NJ 08043
Credits:  CORE; PP2; 1A; 10

5:00 pm Welcome and Updates
        Bill Green, Owner, Saddlehill Winery
        Hemant Gohil, Gloucester County Extension Agent, Rutgers NJAES

        Drone in Vineyard Applications – Demonstration
        What Should You Know to Legally Fly Drones in Agricultural Applications?
        Nathan Graham, UAV/Drone Specialist, Hoober Inc., PA.

        Field Observations from the Wine Grape IPM Pilot Program
        Janine Spies, Statewide Fruit IPM Program Leader, Rutgers NJAES.

        Insect Pest Management in the Vineyard
        Anne Nielsen, Extension Specialist in Fruit Entomology, Rutgers NJAES.

        Timing, Chemistry, Coverage: The Formula for Effective Disease Control
        Nancy Sharma, Extension Specialist, Fruit Pathology, Rutgers NJAES.

        Weed Management Updates for Vineyard
        Thierry Besancon, Extension Specialist, Weed Science, Rutgers NJAES.

        Pesticide recertification credits and adjourn.

Light fare will be provided. 
If you plan to attend, please email Joan Medany at jmedany@co.gloucester.nj.us or call 856-224-8030. 
For additional assistance, please contact Hemant Gohil at 856-224-8029 before the meeting.

 [Read more...]
Filed Under: Blueberry, Cranberry, Fruit, Strawberry, Tree Fruit, Wine Grape Tagged With: , , ,
April 25, 2026 , and

Fruit IPM Updates Week of 4/20/2026

Tree Fruit Phenology Update

Tree fruit development across New Jersey progressed rapidly over the past week under continued warm conditions; however, a significant freeze event has resulted in widespread injury to blossoms and young fruit across much of the state. Reports from across the state indicate substantial losses in many orchards, particularly in low-lying areas and blocks that were at full bloom or petal fall during the freeze. The extent of damage varies by location, variety, and orchard conditions; growers are encouraged to assess injury at the block level before making management decisions.

In apples, early varieties such as ‘Pink Lady’ were at full bloom during the freeze event across the state and are likely to have sustained significant injury. Later varieties and northern regions may have experienced variable damage depending on bloom stage and site conditions. Surviving fruitlets, if present, will become more apparent over the coming week.

In pears, most varieties across the state were at or just past bloom during the freeze, and significant crop loss is being reported. More advanced Asian pears may have experienced higher levels of injury.

Peach and nectarine varieties in southern counties were largely at petal fall to early shuck split during the freeze, and many orchards are reporting severe crop loss. In northern counties, where bloom was still ongoing, damage levels appear variable but may still be substantial in exposed sites.

Despite crop loss, continued monitoring for pests and diseases remains important, particularly in blocks with surviving fruit or where tree health and next season’s production are priorities.

Management Considerations After Freeze

  • Assess damage before making inputs.
    Wait several days for symptoms to fully develop before making thinning, fertilization, or pest management decisions. Cut buds/fruitlets to check for browning of the ovary to determine viability.
  • Thinning programs may not be needed.
    In blocks with significant crop loss, chemical thinning applications should be reduced or avoided. Where crops remain, adjust rates conservatively based on observed fruit set.
  • Maintain disease management programs.
    Even in blocks with reduced crop, fungicide coverage should be maintained (e.g., apple scab, brown rot) to protect foliage and overall tree health. This is critical for supporting return bloom next season.
  • Fire blight risk remains important.
    Damaged blossoms can still serve as infection sites. Continue to monitor models (e.g., NEWA) and apply bactericides where risk is high and viable bloom remains.
  • Insect management should be adjusted, not eliminated.
    Continue monitoring key pests (e.g., Oriental fruit moth, codling moth, plum curculio). In blocks with little to no crop, insecticide programs may be reduced, but trunk and foliar pests that impact tree health should still be managed.
  • Focus on tree health and next year’s crop. Where crop loss is severe, prioritize maintaining healthy foliage through proper nutrition and disease control to support bud development for the 2027 season.

Apples
Apple Phenology Update

Apple phenology advanced rapidly across New Jersey over the past week under warm conditions; however, a significant freeze event has impacted orchards statewide. Most varieties were pink to full bloom during the freeze, with early varieties in southern counties, such as ‘Pink Lady,’ at full bloom and likely sustaining substantial injury. Later varieties and more northern regions may show variable levels of damage depending on bloom stage and site conditions.

As temperatures remain favorable, development will continue into petal fall, where viable fruit remains. This remains a critical period for disease management, particularly for fire blight, apple scab, powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust. Even in blocks with reduced crop, maintaining protection of foliage and any surviving fruit is important for overall tree health and return bloom next season. Monitoring for early-season insect pests should also continue, with management decisions adjusted based on crop presence and block-specific conditions.

Phenology Dates by County (earliest varieties)

County Green Tip Tight Cluster Pink Bud Bloom Petal Fall
Cumberland 3/22 3/28 4/3 4/8 4/17
Gloucester 3/22 3/28 4/3 4/8 4/17
Burlington 3/22 3/28 4/2 4/13 4/22
Mercer 3/22 3/28 4/2 4/13 4/22
Middlesex 3/22 4/1 4/4 4/14 4/22
Monmouth 3/22 4/1 4/4 4/14 4/22
Hunterdon 3/22 4/1 4/10 4/17 TBD
Morris 3/26 4/4 4/11 4/17 TBD
Warren 3/30 4/4 4/13 4/17 TBD
Sussex 3/31 4/10 4/14 4/18 TBD
Bergen 3/22 4/1 4/4 4/14 TBD
Apple Scab
Models

Apple scab infection risk remains elevated as we move through bloom and into petal fall. Ascospore maturity continues to increase rapidly, and we are in a critical window for primary infection. While recent conditions have been relatively dry, upcoming forecasted wetting events may result in significant ascospore discharge and infection risk. Growers should continue to monitor forecasts closely and maintain fungicide coverage, particularly ahead of rain events. Models are available through NEWA and RIMpro.

Current Update using the Upper Deerfield Station
  • ~69–74% ascospore maturity as of April 22–23
  • ~43% cumulative ascospore discharge to date
  • Forecasted to reach ~79–84% maturity by April 24–26
  • Cumulative ascospore discharge forecasted to increase to ~78–82% by April 25–27
  • A combined infection event is forecasted for April 25–26 with sufficient wetting and favorable temperatures for infection

Primary scab season is approaching peak discharge, and maintaining coverage through this period is essential to prevent the establishment of primary infections.

Management Considerations

Fungicide programs should be maintained through bloom and into petal fall, particularly ahead of the forecasted infection event later this week. Despite widespread freeze injury, protecting foliage and any remaining viable fruit is critical for both current and next season’s production.

Programs should prioritize control of apple scab, fire blight (where bloom remains), powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust, especially given increasing ascospore maturity and the upcoming wetting period.

Recommended Programs

  • Protectant + single-site tank mix:
    • Mancozeb or Captan + single-site fungicide (use reduced rate when tank mixing)
  • FRAC 3 (DMI fungicides):
    • Rally, Indar, Inspire Super, Topguard, Cevya
    • Strong activity on scab, powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust
  • FRAC 7 fungicides:
    • Fontelis, Miravis, Sercadis
    • Effective for scab and mildew, but limited rust activity
    • Reserve Aprovia for summer bitter rot programs (max 4 applications)
  • FRAC 7 + 11 or 7 + 9 premixes:
    • Merivon, Luna Sensation, Luna Tranquility, Pristine
    • Broad-spectrum activity; good fit during high scab pressure periods
  • FRAC 9 or FRAC 1 fungicides:
    • Vangard, Scala, Topsin
    • Useful for scab, but do not control cedar apple rust
  • Fire blight management:
    • Rotate Kasugamycin, Streptomycin, and Oxytetracycline
    • Kasumin is labeled only through bloom/petal fall
    • Streptomycin and oxytetracycline can be used post-bloom (note: FireLine 45 allows only 1 post-bloom application)
    • Consider Actigard, Apogee/Kudos, or other plant defense elicitors where appropriate

Key Reminders

  • Time applications ahead of rain events – a significant infection period is forecasted around April 25–26
  • Apply on a 3–7 day interval, tightening to 3–5 days during high-risk periods
  • Do not relax fungicide programs despite crop loss – protecting foliage is critical for return bloom
  • Powdery mildew remains active under dry conditions
  • Do not tank mix Captan with oil due to phytotoxicity risk
  • Rotate FRAC groups and preserve FRAC 11 fungicides for summer use

Monitor:

  • NEWA models
  • Weather/wetting events
  • Phenology
Insect Update

Early control is critical to avoiding season-long pressure.

Ambrosia Beetle

  • Significant flight activity has been observed across New Jersey, with high trap captures reported in multiple counties
  • Activity remains elevated, particularly following recent warm temperatures
  • Continue monitoring closely, especially in stressed, freeze-damaged, declining, or newly planted blocks, which remain highly susceptible
  • Freeze-injured trees may be more attractive to ambrosia beetles, increasing risk even in blocks with little to no crop

Codling Moth (CM)

  • Biofix has been set for southern New Jersey as of April 20, 2026
  • No trap capture has occurred in northern New Jersey this season
  • Begin tracking degree-day accumulations from this date to time management applications
  • In blocks with viable crop, early-season control is important to prevent internal fruit feeding later in the season
  • In blocks with little to no crop, CM management programs may be reduced, but monitoring should continue
Summary
  • A significant freeze event has resulted in widespread blossom and fruit loss across many orchards
  • Damage varies by block, and crop viability should be assessed before making management decisions
  • Apple scab risk is approaching peak primary infection, with a major infection event forecasted around April 25–26—fungicide coverage is critical ahead of rain
  • Fire blight risk remains in blocks with surviving bloom; continue monitoring models and applying bactericides as needed
  • Even in low-crop blocks, maintaining disease control and tree health is essential to support return bloom for next season

Pears
Pear Phenology Update

Pear development progressed rapidly across New Jersey under recent warm temperatures; however, a significant freeze event has resulted in widespread injury to blossoms and young fruit.

Most European pear varieties in New Jersey were at full bloom to early petal fall during the freeze and are likely to have sustained substantial crop loss, especially in low-lying or frost-prone areas. Damage levels vary by block, and growers should assess viability over the coming days.

Asian pear varieties, which were generally slightly more advanced, may have experienced greater levels of injury in some locations due to increased sensitivity at later bloom stages. In northern counties, where bloom was still ongoing, damage appears more variable depending on site conditions.

Where viable fruit remains, development will continue into petal fall. Despite potential crop loss, maintaining disease management and overall tree health remains important to support return bloom and long-term productivity.

Pear Psylla
  • Pear psylla activity remains generally low to moderate across southern New Jersey, though variability exists by block
  • Freeze-damaged orchards may see increased psylla pressure, as stressed trees are more susceptible to colonization

Regional Observations:

  • Gloucester County: None observed
  • Salem County: Adults observed
  • Burlington County: No activity observed to date
  • Mercer County: No activity observed to date

As orchards move through petal fall and temperatures remain warm, psylla populations are expected to increase, particularly where eggs are already present.

Management Considerations

  • Insecticide applications should target newly hatched nymphs, which are the most susceptible stage
  • Timing is critical—applications shortly after egg hatch provide the most effective control
  • Prioritize blocks with historically high pressure, current egg presence, or freeze stress
  • Even in blocks with reduced crop, psylla management remains important to protect tree health and prevent honeydew/sooty mold buildup

Recommended Options

  • Movento (IRAC 23) – excellent systemic control of psylla, scale, and aphids (apply with a spreading/penetrating adjuvant for best performance)
  • Actara (IRAC 4A) – highly effective on psylla and aphids
  • Assail (IRAC 4A) – good activity on psylla and multiple pests
  • Belay (IRAC 4A) – effective option for psylla control
  • Centaur (IRAC 16) – targets immature stages
  • Sivanto Prime (IRAC 4D) – effective, softer option with good activity
  • Agri-mek (IRAC 6) – strong option when applied with oil/adjuvant, especially for nymph control
Pear Diseases
Fire Blight and Early Season Management

As pear orchards move through petal fall, the primary bloom infection period is largely complete; however, fire blight risk remains a concern, particularly under warm conditions and in blocks with freeze-injured tissue.

The recent freeze may increase susceptibility, as damaged blossoms and succulent regrowth provide entry points for infection, especially during rain, wind, or rapid shoot growth.

At Petal Fall and Post-Bloom:

  • Continue monitoring forecasts using NEWA for blight risk, especially following storms
  • Discontinue streptomycin after petal fall (not labeled beyond this stage)
  • Kasumin may be used up to petal fall only; do not apply afterward
  • Focus on protecting actively growing shoots, particularly during warm, wet, or stormy conditions
  • In high-risk situations, oxytetracycline (e.g., Mycoshield/FireLine) may be used post-bloom for shoot blight suppression

Management Considerations:

  • Watch closely for trauma events (hail, wind, heavy rain), which can trigger infections
  • Maintain heightened awareness in blocks with a history of fire blight or freeze injury
  • Rapid shoot growth under warm conditions increases susceptibility—vigorous orchards are at higher risk
  • Be prepared to transition to post-bloom shoot blight management strategies, including timely antibiotic applications where appropriate

Fungicide Considerations (Post-Bloom)

  • Maintain protectant fungicides (e.g., Mancozeb, Ziram) for pear scab and Fabraea leaf spot
  • Use FRAC 3, 7, and premix fungicides (e.g., Inspire Super, Merivon, Luna products) for broad-spectrum disease control
  • Rotate FRAC groups to manage resistance and maintain program efficacy
  • Continue coverage even in low-crop blocks to protect foliage and support return bloom
Pear Scab

RIMpro modeling indicates that infection risk is increasing rapidly, with a significant infection period developing April 25–27. Infection values are reaching moderate to high levels, indicating strong potential for primary infections during this window.

Ascospore availability remains high, and with forecasted wetting events and increasing susceptibility, this represents a critical period for disease management. Even as trees move beyond bloom, maintaining coverage is essential to prevent the establishment of primary scab infections.

At and Past Petal Fall

  • Maintain protective fungicide coverage, especially ahead of the April 25–27 infection period
  • Apply prior to rain events, as infection occurs during leaf wetness periods
  • If ≥2 inches of rainfall occurs after an application, consider reapplication to maintain protection
  • Conditions are favorable for infection under cool, wet weather with extended leaf wetness

Recommended Options

  • Protectants: Mancozeb, Ziram, Ferbam
  • Resistance-risk materials: Procure, Cevya, Flint, Merivon, Luna Sensation, Inspire Super
  • Vangard – use in tank mix with a protectant
Summary

A significant freeze event has resulted in widespread blossom and fruit loss in many New Jersey pear orchards, with damage varying by block and site conditions.

  • Most pear varieties in southern counties are now at petal fall to early post-bloom, while northern counties range from full bloom to late bloom
  • Asian pear varieties, which were more advanced, may have experienced greater levels of freeze injury in some locations
  • Pear psylla pressure remains low to moderate, but populations are expected to increase with warm temperatures and may be higher in freeze-stressed blocks
  • Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall, with a focus on targeting early nymph hatch and prioritizing high-pressure or stressed orchards
  • Pear scab risk is increasing, with a high-risk infection period forecasted around April 25–27—fungicide coverage should be maintained ahead of rainfall
  • Fire blight risk remains elevated, particularly in blocks with freeze injury and actively growing shoots; monitor for trauma events and late infection risk
  • Even in blocks with reduced crop, maintaining disease control and tree health is critical to support return bloom and productivity next season
  • Continued scouting and close monitoring of weather conditions, pest activity, and tree response will be essential over the next 7–10 days

Peaches
Peach Phenology
  • Peach and nectarine development progressed rapidly across New Jersey under recent warm temperatures; however, a significant freeze event has resulted in widespread injury to blossoms and young fruit, particularly in southern counties.
  • Most varieties in southern New Jersey were at shuck split during the freeze, a highly sensitive stage, and are likely to have sustained substantial crop loss, especially in low-lying or frost-prone areas. In northern counties, where bloom was still ongoing, damage appears more variable depending on site conditions and variety.
  • Development will continue to advance under favorable temperatures, with any surviving fruit progressing through shuck split into early fruit development. Over the coming week, growers should assess crop viability at the block level as injury becomes more apparent.
  • Despite potential crop loss, maintaining disease management and overall tree health remains important to support return bloom and long-term productivity.
Brown Rot

Blossom blight risk is declining as orchards move through petal fall; however, brown rot remains a concern on young fruitlets, particularly under warm, wet conditions. The recent freeze may have increased susceptibility, as damaged blossoms and fruitlets can serve as infection sites.

Infection is favored during wetting periods between 41–86°F (optimal mid-70s), and risk remains elevated during extended wet periods. Fruitlets remain susceptible through shuck split, after which natural resistance begins to increase.

Management Considerations

  • Maintain fungicide coverage through petal fall and into early cover, especially ahead of rainfall
  • Focus on protecting young fruitlets, particularly in blocks with a history of brown rot
  • If prolonged wetting occurred during bloom, ensure continued protection post-bloom
  • Rotate fungicide chemistries to reduce resistance risk

Recommended Petal Fall / Early Cover Materials

  • Effective options:
    • Indar, Inspire Super, Luna Sensation, Merivon, Pristine, Cevya, Flint Extra
  • Additional options:
    • Rovral (prior to petal fall timing only)
    • Captan (useful in cover sprays)

Notes:

  • Many of the most effective materials (FRAC 7, 11, 3) also play key roles in pre-harvest brown rot control—plan rotations accordingly
  • Avoid over-reliance on any single FRAC group
  • Abound and Quadris Top are highly effective, but are phytotoxic to apples—do not use if the same sprayer is used across crops

Petal Fall / Early Cover Disease Programs

  • Peach scab:
    • Cankers begin to expand at bloom and by shuck split begin to shed spores during wetting periods, so protective applications should be initiated starting at petal fall.
    • Captan or Captan/Topsin combinations are good for cover sprays after shuck split for blocks that had scab last year.
    • Apply Flint Extra or Abound at petal fall for anti-sporulant activity in high-pressure blocks.
  • Bacterial spot:
    • Begin protection at petal fall in susceptible blocks using copper or Mycoshield, especially under warm, wet conditions.
    • Avoid combining copper with captan especially if it has been overcast for several days.
  • Rusty spot:
    • Programs should begin at petal fall, with Rally commonly used as the first application.
Insect Update

Oriental Fruit Moth (OFM)

  • OFM traps are active across New Jersey, with biofix set for April 7 in South NJ and April 15 for most counties in North NJ.
  • Degree-day accumulation should be tracked from this date to properly time first-generation management. The first insecticides for first generation Oriental Fruit Moth control should be applied at 170-200 degree days (base 45 deg F) after biofix. This timing generally coincides with petal fall in peaches. Do not apply insecticides until all bloom is off regardless of degree day timing. No Insecticides for OFM should be needed where Mating Disruption is implemented.
  • As blocks move through petal fall, growers should begin preparing for first cover applications targeting OFM larvae. Timings can be calculated using the degree day calculator at the NEWA website by choosing the weather station nearest your farm, entering the biofix date as the start date, and choosing base 45 in the “degree day type” menu.
  • Keep in mind that plum curculio is also active at petal fall so an insecticide that targets both pests should be selected, like Asana or Avaunt.
OFM 1st Generation Timing
  Insecticide Type
County/Region Degree Days

by 4/24 base 45

 Conventional

170-200, 350-375

 Diamide

100-150, 300-350
Gloucester – Southern 235 1st –4/18-4/23

2nd –

 1st –past

2nd –
Middlesex – Northern 133 1st –4/30-5/2

2nd –

  1st – 4/22-4/28

2nd –

Scale

  • Delayed dormant oil applications are complete for most orchards.
  • Where oil was not applied or in orchards where scale is a recurring problem, an application of Centaur at petal fall or Movento between petal fall and shuck split should “clean up” problem blocks. Centaur is recommended at 34.5 ozs./ac and Movento should be applied at 6-9 ozs./ac. A penetrant must be included to Movento as per the product label. Movento will also control green peach aphid when used at this time.
  • Continue monitoring historically infested blocks and planning for crawler management later in the season if populations persist.

Green Peach Aphid

  • GPA colonies begin forming sometime during bloom. Examine trees for the presence of colonies from pink to shuck split.
  • Continue scouting as terminals expand, and colonies begin to establish.
  • Count the number of colonies on ten trees and use a treatment threshold:
    • Nectarines: 1 colony per tree
    • Peaches: 2–3 colonies per tree

Lesser and Greater Peach Tree Borers

  • Growers using mating disruption for borer control can begin placing dispensers around the end of April and should have them in place by mid-May.

Petal Fall Considerations

Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall.

  • Target key pests including:
    • OFM (timed by degree-days from biofix)
    • Plum curculio
    • Tarnished plant bug and other catfacing isnects
    • Green peach aphid

Early applications should focus on preventing the establishment of first-generation pests, particularly in blocks with a history of pressure

Recommended Petal Fall Options

  • OFM / Leafrollers:
    • Altacor, Asana, Delegate, Besiege, Voliam Flexi
  • Plum Curculio / Catfacing Insects:
    • Imidan, Avaunt, Actara, pyrethroids (e.g., Warrior II, Lambda-Cy)
  • Green Peach Aphid:
    • Assail, Actara, Admire Pro
Summary
  • Most peach and nectarine varieties in southern New Jersey are at petal fall to shuck split, while northern counties are at full bloom to petal fall.
  • The freeze event earlier this week has resulted in significant impact across the state, although the effect on projected crop yield is currently unknown.
  • Brown rot risk remains present, particularly during wetting events, with young fruitlets susceptible through shuck split.
  • Maintain fungicide coverage through petal fall and into early cover, especially ahead of rainfall.
  • OFM biofix was set for 4/7 for southern counties and 4/15 for northern counties, and growers should continue tracking degree-day accumulation to time first-generation management.
  • Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall, targeting key pests including OFM, plum curculio, tarnished plant bug, and green peach aphid.
Filed Under: Commercial Ag Updates, Disease Forecasting, Fruit, Tree Fruit Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
April 20, 2026 , and

Fruit IPM Updates Week of 4/13/2026

Tree Fruit Phenology Update

Tree fruit development resumed rapidly across New Jersey this past week following earlier frost events, with warm temperatures accelerating phenology. While some frost damage may be present in advanced blocks—particularly in southern counties—overall development is progressing quickly and bloom is widespread. A freeze event is expected overnight Monday 4/20 into Tuesday, and temperatures will gradually moderate through the remainder of the week.

In apples, early varieties such as ‘Pink Lady’ are now at full bloom in southern counties, with most other varieties progressing through pink to early bloom across central and northern regions. Bloom is becoming more widespread statewide.

In pears, most varieties are beginning petal fall in southern counties. Asian pears remain slightly more advanced.

Peach and nectarine varieties are close to 100% petal fall in southern counties, with early varieties beginning shuck split. In northern counties, most varieties are at bloom, with some earlier varieties reaching petal fall.

Apples
Apple Phenology Update

Apple phenology continues to progress across New Jersey, with development advancing rapidly under recent warm temperatures. Observations indicate that most varieties statewide are at pink bud, while early varieties in southern counties, such as Pink Lady, have entered bloom.

This stage marks a critical transition in disease management, particularly for fire blight, apple scab, powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust, while also representing an important period for early-season insect management and monitoring.

Phenology Dates by County (earliest varieties)

County Green Tip Tight Cluster Pink Bud Bloom
Cumberland 3/22 3/28 4/3 4/8
Gloucester 3/22 3/28 4/3 4/8
Burlington 3/22 3/28 4/2 4/13
Mercer 3/22 3/28 4/2 4/13
Middlesex 3/22 4/1 4/4 4/14
Monmouth 3/22 4/1 4/4 4/14
Hunterdon 3/22 4/1 4/10 4/17
Morris 3/26 4/4 4/11 4/17
Warren 3/30 4/4 4/13 4/17
Sussex 3/31 4/10 4/14 TBD
Bergen 3/22 4/1 4/4 4/14

Apple Scab
Models

Apple scab infection risk continues to increase as we move through bloom. Models available through NEWA and RIMpro. indicate that ascospore maturity is progressing rapidly, and we are entering a critical period for primary infection.

While conditions have been relatively dry over the past several days, upcoming weather patterns may result in infection events. Growers should continue to monitor forecasts closely and maintain fungicide coverage, particularly during bloom when susceptibility is high.

Current Update using the Upper Deerfield Station
  • ~58% ascospore maturity as of April 15–17
  • ~28% cumulative ascospore discharge to date
  • Forecasted to reach ~65–75% maturity by April 18–21
  • Cumulative ascospore discharge forecasted to increase to ~57–58% by April 19–20
Management Considerations

Fungicide applications should be maintained through bloom, prior to predicted infection events.

Programs should prioritize control of fire blight, apple scab, powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust, especially in blocks at full bloom or entering petal fall.

Recommended Programs

  • Protectant + single-site tank mix:
    • Mancozeb + single-site fungicide (use reduced rate when tank mixing)
  • FRAC 3 (DMI fungicides):
    • Rally, Indar, Inspire Super, Topguard, Cevya
    • Provide strong activity on scab, powdery mildew, and cedar apple rust
  • FRAC 7 fungicides:
    • Fontelis, Miravis, Sercadis
    • Effective for scab and mildew, but limited rust activity
    • Reserve Aprovia for summer bitter rot programs (max 4 applications)
  • FRAC 9 or FRAC 1 fungicides:
    • Vangard, Scala, Topsin
    • Useful for scab, but do not control cedar apple rust
  • Rotation of Kasugamycin, Streptomycin and Oxytetratracycline for fire blight
    • Kasumin is only labeled for bloom and petal fall applications
    • Streptomycin and oxytetracycline are labeled for post bloom use (note that Fireline 45 only allows for 1 postbloom application on apple).
    • The addition of Actigard, Apogee/Kudos, or other plant defense elicitors may improve control.

Monitor:

  • NEWA models
  • Weather/wetting events
  • Phenology
Insect Update

Early control is critical to avoiding season-long pressure.

Ambrosia Beetle

  • Significant flight activity has been observed across New Jersey, with high trap captures reported in multiple counties.
  • Activity is increasing in all regions.
  • Continue monitoring activity closely, particularly in stressed, declining, or newly planted blocks, which remain most susceptible.
  • Growers should remain alert, as peak flight activity typically coincides with warm temperatures during bloom.

Mating Disruption Timing

  • Codling moth (CM) mating disruption should be deployed by bloom (pink–early bloom timing is ideal).
  • Most counties are now at bloom, and applications should be completed immediately if not already done.
Key Reminders
  • Apply on a 3–7 day interval during bloom, tightening ahead of rain
  • Powdery mildew can develop under dry conditions
  • Do not tank mix Captan with oil due to phytotoxicity risk
  • Rotate FRAC groups and preserve FRAC 11 fungicides for summer use

Pears
Pear Phenology Update

Pear development has progressed rapidly across New Jersey, with warm temperatures accelerating bloom.

Most European pear varieties are now early-petal-fall in southern counties.

Asian pear varieties remain slightly more advanced, with many blocks in southern counties moving through late bloom into early petal fall, and northern plantings at full bloom to late bloom.

Pear Psylla

Pear psylla activity continues to be variable across southern New Jersey, though pressure remains generally low to moderate in most orchards. Earlier oil applications, particularly where combined with materials such as Esteem, have likely helped suppress early populations.

  • Gloucester County: None observed
  • Salem County: Adults observed
  • Burlington County: No activity observed to date
  • Mercer County: No activity observed to date

As orchards move through petal fall, psylla populations are expected to increase with continued warm temperatures.

At Petal Fall:

  • Continue monitoring for adults, eggs, and early nymph hatch
  • Use beating trays to assess adult activity
  • Examine developing shoots and leaf undersides for eggs and emerging nymphs

Management Considerations:

  • Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall, targeting early nymph stages
  • Timing is critical—applications shortly after egg hatch provide the most effective control
  • Prioritize blocks with historically high pressure or current egg presence

Recommended Petal Fall Options:

  • Movento – excellent systemic control of psylla, scale, and aphids (use with a spreading-penetrating adjuvant to improve efficacy)
  • Also effective options at petal fall: Actara, Assail, Belay, Centaur, Sivanto Prime, and Agri-mek

Management should focus on targeting newly hatched nymphs, as this stage is the most susceptible and critical for preventing population buildup.

Pear Diseases
Fire Blight and Early Season Management

As pear orchards move through petal fall, the primary bloom infection period is wrapping up; however, fire blight risk remains elevated under warm conditions. Bacteria can still spread to young tissues, particularly during periods of rain, wind, or rapid growth.

At Petal Fall and Post-Bloom:

  • Continue to monitor forecasts using NEWA for any late infection or trauma blight risk
  • Discontinue streptomycin use after petal fall (not labeled beyond this stage)
  • Kasumin may be used up to petal fall, but should not be applied afterward
  • Focus on protecting actively growing shoots, especially during warm, wet, or stormy conditions

Management Considerations:

  • Watch for trauma events (hail, wind, heavy rain), which can trigger infections
  • Maintain awareness in blocks with a history of fire blight
  • Be prepared to transition to post-bloom management strategies if conditions remain favorable
Pear Scab

RIMpro modeling continues to indicate that ascospore availability remains high, and infection risk persists during wetting events. As trees move beyond bloom, maintaining coverage remains critical to prevent primary infections.

At Petal Fall:

  • Maintain protective fungicide coverage, especially ahead of rainfall
  • Apply prior to wetting events, as infections occur during leaf wetness periods
  • If ≥2 inches of rainfall occurs after an application, consider reapplication to maintain coverage

Recommended Options:

  • Protectants: Mancozeb, Ziram, Ferbam
  • Resistance-risk materials: Procure, Cevya, Flint, Merivon, Luna Sensation, Inspire Super, Vangard (tank mix with protectant)
Summary
  • Most pear varieties across southern New Jersey are now at petal fall, with some blocks moving into early post-bloom stages; northern counties remain at full bloom to late bloom.
  • Asian pear varieties remain slightly more advanced, with many blocks at petal fall.
  • Pear psylla pressure remains low to moderate, likely due in part to prior oil applications, particularly where combined with Esteem.
  • Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall, with a focus on targeting early nymph hatch.
  • Growers should continue scouting for adults, eggs, and newly hatched nymphs to guide post-bloom management decisions.
  • Recent and forecasted wetting events continue to support pear scab infection risk, and fungicide coverage should be maintained.
  • Fire blight risk remains elevated, particularly under warm conditions; monitor for trauma events and late infection risk.
  • Continued scouting and close monitoring of weather conditions and tree growth will be critical over the next 7–10 days as post-bloom disease and insect pressure develop.

Peaches
Peach Phenology
  • Peach at shuck split in Gloucester County, NJ.

    Figure 1. Peach at shuck split in Gloucester County, NJ.

    Peach and nectarine development has progressed rapidly across New Jersey, with warm temperatures accelerating bloom and early fruit set.

  • Most varieties in southern counties are now at petal fall to early shuck split (Figure 1), while northern counties are at full bloom, with some earlier varieties at petal fall.
  • Development is expected to continue advancing quickly under continued warm conditions, with southern blocks moving further into early fruit development stages over the next week.

 

Brown Rot

Blossom blight risk declines as orchards move through petal fall; however, infections can still occur on remaining blossoms and young fruitlets under favorable conditions.

Infection is favored during wetting periods between 41–86°F, with optimal conditions in the mid-70s, and risk remains elevated during extended wet periods. Fruitlets remain susceptible until shuck split, when natural resistance begins to increase.

Management Considerations

  • Maintain fungicide coverage through petal fall and into early cover, especially ahead of rainfall
  • Focus on protecting young fruitlets, particularly in blocks with a history of brown rot
  • If prolonged wetting occurred during bloom, ensure continued protection post-bloom
  • Rotate fungicide chemistries to reduce resistance risk

Recommended Petal Fall / Early Cover Materials

  • Effective options:
    • Indar, Inspire Super, Luna Sensation, Merivon, Pristine, Cevya, Flint Extra
  • Additional options:
    • Rovral (prior to petal fall timing only)
    • Captan (useful in cover sprays)

Notes:

  • Many of the most effective materials (FRAC 7, 11, 3) also play key roles in pre-harvest brown rot control—plan rotations accordingly
  • Avoid over-reliance on any single FRAC group
  • Abound and Quadris Top are highly effective, but are phytotoxic to apples—do not use if the same sprayer is used across crops

Petal Fall / Early Cover Considerations: 

  • Peach scab:
    • Apply Flint Extra or Abound at petal fall for anti-sporulant activity in high-pressure blocks
  • Bacterial spot:
    • Begin protection at petal fall in susceptible blocks using copper or Mycoshield, especially under warm, wet conditions
  • Rusty spot:
    • Programs should begin at petal fall, with Rally commonly used as the first application
Insect Update

Oriental Fruit Moth (OFM)

OFM traps are active across southern New Jersey, with biofix set for April 7 in South NJ and April 15 for most counties in North NJ.

Degree-day accumulation should be tracked from this date to properly time first-generation management. The first insecticides for first generation Oriental Fruit Moth control should be applied at 170-200 degree days (base 45 deg F) after biofix. This timing generally coincides with petal fall in peaches. Do not apply insecticides until all bloom is off regardless of degree day timing. No Insecticides for OFM should be needed where Mating Disruption is implemented.

As blocks move through petal fall, growers should begin preparing for first cover applications targeting OFM larvae. Timings can be calculated using the degree day calculator at the NEWA website by choosing the weather station nearest your farm, entering the biofix date as the start date, and choosing base 45 in the “degree day type” menu.

Keep in mind that plum curculio is also active at petal fall so an insecticide that targets both pests should be selected.

OFM 1st Generation Timing
  Insecticide Type
County/Region Degree Days

by 4/19 base 45

 Conventional

170-200, 350-375

 Diamide

100-150, 300-350
Gloucester – Southern 178 1st –4/18-4/23

2nd –

 1st –past

2nd –
Middlesex – Northern 101 1st –4/27-4/29

2nd –

  1st – 4/19-4/25

2nd –

Scale

  • Delayed dormant oil applications are complete for most orchards.
  • Continue monitoring historically infested blocks and plan for crawler management later in the season if populations persist.

Green Peach Aphid

  • GPA colonies begin forming sometime during bloom. Examine trees for the presence of colonies from pink to shuck split.
  • Continue scouting as terminals expand and colonies begin to establish.
  • Count the number of colonies on ten trees and use a treatment threshold:
    • Nectarines: 1 colony per tree
    • Peaches: 2–3 colonies per tree

Petal Fall Considerations

Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall

  • Target key pests including:
    • OFM (timed by degree-days from biofix)
    • Plum curculio
    • Tarnished plant bug and other catfacing isnects
    • Green peach aphid

Early applications should focus on preventing the establishment of first-generation pests, particularly in blocks with a history of pressure

Recommended Petal Fall Options

  • OFM / Leafrollers:
    • Altacor, Delegate, Besiege, Voliam Flexi
  • Plum Curculio / Catfacing Insects:
    • Imidan, Avaunt, Actara, pyrethroids (e.g., Warrior II, Lambda-Cy)
  • Green Peach Aphid:
    • Assail, Actara, Admire Pro
Summary
  • Most peach and nectarine varieties in southern New Jersey are now at petal fall to early shuck split, while northern counties are at full bloom.
  • Development has progressed rapidly under recent warm temperatures and will continue advancing quickly with favorable weather.
  • Brown rot risk remains present, particularly during wetting events, with young fruitlets susceptible through shuck split.
  • Maintain fungicide coverage through petal fall and into early cover, especially ahead of rainfall.
  • OFM biofix was set for 4/7 for southern counties and 4/15 for northern counties, and growers should continue tracking degree-day accumulation to time first-generation management.
  • Insecticide applications can resume at petal fall, targeting key pests including OFM, plum curculio, and green peach aphid.
  • Delayed dormant oil timing has passed; focus should shift to in-season insect monitoring and management.
  • Continue scouting for green peach aphid, with treatment thresholds of 1 colony/tree in nectarines and 2–3 colonies/tree in peaches.
  • Continued scouting and timely applications will be critical over the next 7–10 days as crop development and pest pressure increase.
Filed Under: Commercial Ag Updates, Disease Forecasting, Fruit, Tree Fruit Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
April 20, 2026

NJ DEP issues Controlled Open Burn Permit from April 18, through Wednesday April 22.

(TRENTON) – With the state expected to experience cooler spring temperatures, the Department of Environmental Protection has agreed with NJDA Secretary Ed Wengryn’s request to allow farmers to do controlled open burning or use specialized torches known as smudge pots to protect flowering crops from damage beginning Saturday, April 18, through Wednesday, April 22. Temperatures are expected to drop to the 30s or below this week with varying winds through portions of the state. These expected temperatures follow warm temperatures in recent days. Damage from freezing weather now can significantly reduce yields of certain fruits and vegetables that are in the flowering stage.

The DEP and the Department of Agriculture are allowing these steps to protect farmers’ livelihoods and ensure that consumers can enjoy an ample supply of Jersey produce later this year.  The DEP intends to exercise its authority and discretion under the Air Pollution Control Code, N.J.A.C. 7:27, et seq., and other applicable authorities to permit the following procedure for open burning or the use of smudge pots to assist farmers in protecting their crops in low temperatures. Farmers who believe they will need to conduct open burns and/or use smudge pots must provide notice to the DEP’s 24-hour Communications Center at 1-877- WARNDEP (1-877-927-6337). Notification to DEP does not require implementing either technique, but it ensures proper procedures are followed should they become necessary. If a farmer does not call DEP in advance but uses either technique, the farmer must notify DEP by 9 a.m. the following day. The farmer will be asked which technique was used. Farmers must record the incident number provided to them by the Communications Center. The following information is to be provided:

 Name of the individual making the decision to conduct the open burning/use of smudge pots and name of the farm.

  • Actual street address of the farm on which either technique will be used (no P.O. Boxes).
  • Telephone number of a contact at the farm.
  • Predicted temperature (in degrees Fahrenheit) at the agricultural operation when the technique will be used.
  • Wind speed anticipated when the technique will be used.
  • Predicted hours of open burning and/or use of smudge pots.
  • Materials expected to be burned.
  • At the time of the initial call to the Communications Center, farmers will be given an email address and incident number.

Within two days, they must submit to DEP via this email address the following information:

  • The DEP Communications Center incident number.
  • Ambient temperature (in degrees Fahrenheit) at the time the technique was used.
  • Actual wind speed at the orchard at the time the technique was used.
  • A statement verifying that all restrictions in the open burning or use of smudge pots were followed.
  • The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and New Jersey Forest Fire Service caution all farmers and agriculture businesses with respect to the use of open burning in high wind velocity conditions. Please take note that farmers are encouraged to utilize smudge pots for warming as necessary during higher wind conditions. Use of open burning when wind velocity is greater than 5 mph is strictly prohibited, may contribute to wildfire risk, and can carry significant penalties.
  • Smudge pots must be fueled only with either kerosene or No. 2 fuel oil.
  • Open burning can consist only of either the following materials: clean and untreated scrap lumber, felled trees, clippings pruned from trees and shrubs, hedgerows, or firewood. Absolutely no refuse, trade waste, tires or garbage of any type may be added to the authorized open burning material.

 The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and New Jersey Forest Fire Service caution all farmers and agriculture businesses with respect to the use of open burning in high wind velocity conditions. Please take note that farmers are encouraged to utilize smudge pots for warming as necessary during higher wind conditions. Use of open burning when wind velocity is greater than 5 mph is strictly prohibited, may contribute to wildfire risk, and can carry significant penalties.

###

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA), established in 1916, serves New Jersey’s agricultural community and residents through a wide range of programs across its divisions that ensure the preservation and continuation of the state’s agricultural landscape.  NJDA works to ensure the safety and quality of New Jersey’s food supply, protect animal and plant health, and promote the overall long‑term viability of agriculture. The Department also connects consumers with New Jersey’s farmers and locally grown products while supporting the state’s diverse agricultural industry through initiatives of the Jersey Fresh program.  

For more information about the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NJDeptofAgriculture and www.facebook.com/JerseyFreshOfficial; on Instagram @njdeptofagriculture; on X/Twitter @NJDA and @JerseyFreshNJDA; and on LinkedIn at New Jersey Department of Agriculture. 

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Blueberry, Cranberry, Fruit, Strawberry, Tree Fruit, Vegetable Crops, Wine Grape Tagged With: , , ,
April 16, 2026

Farm Safety Needs Assessment Closing May 1

The Rutgers Farm Health and Safety Working Group is conducting a survey to evaluate the priority needs of New Jersey farmers for training and resource development related to safety and health.  As a New Jersey farmer, you are invited to complete this survey by Friday, May 1, 2026. Click here to access the survey and learn more.  [Read more…]

Filed Under: Agrivoltaics, Blueberry, Christmas Trees, Commercial Ag Updates, Cranberry, Disease Forecasting, Field, Forage & Livestock, Food Safety, Fruit, Landscape, Nursery, & Turf, Nursery, Organic Production, Strawberry, Tree Fruit, Turf, Vegetable Crops, Wine Grape Tagged With: ,
April 14, 2026 , and

Fire blight infection predicted week of April 13

NEWA is predicting a high risk for fire blight infection this week as a result of favorable conditions for apple orchards in bloom. Favorable conditions include 1) a certain number of heat units accumulated during bloom for a threshold level of inoculum to be reached; 2) a wetting event to wash the bacteria into infection sites; and 3) the average temperature is above 60°F. If at least two conditions are met during bloom, then the risk for infection is ‘High’ and antibiotics should be applied. A wetting event is not necessary to elevate the risk. Additionally, forecasted wetting events should be carefully considered and a bactericide applied just before or after a rain event.

When using the fire blight model on NEWA, it is important to enter your own “First Blossom Open Date” for your orchard as this can drastically change predictions. You can also enter your orchard’s history with fireblight in the first drop down menu. Lastly, you can enter the date you last applied an antibiotic this season and the model will reset to provide the most accurate predictions. When using the model, it is important to look at the column farthest to the right in the chart titled “Infection Potential EIP Value” since this is the most accurate prediction for our region. Any time the model shows an orange (High) or red (Extreme) output and the value for that date is above 100, an antibiotic application is warranted.

To manage fire blight in both apples and pears, consider using Kasumin at bloom. Kasumin is an antibiotic like Streptomycin and Oxytetratracycline. It contains Kasugamycin which is a different chemistry. Kasumin is only labeled for bloom and petal fall applications while strep and oxytet are labeled for post bloom use (note that Fireline 45 only allows for 1 postbloom application on apple). Using 3 different chemistries in rotation allows for resistance management while extending the protection into the post bloom period when late blossoms typically appear which ever material you use, the addition of Actigard or other plant defense elicitors may improve control. Applications of Apogee or Kudos during bloom can work to prevent shoot blight after petal fall. The use of Actigard and Apogee are especially recommended in new plantings where instances of shoot blight can kill young trees. For further recommendations on these products, Michigan State University published a guide including information on application timing and product rates.

Additionally, for peaches at petal fall, copper formulations should be used to suppress bacterial spot. Generally we recommend starting at 0.5 oz of metallic copper and gradually lowering the rate as the season progresses. The rate applied will depend on the formulation. Dr. Norm Lalancette published a chart listing common copper formulations and rates for peach and nectarine applications. Avoid combining copper with captan especially if it has been overcast for several days. Also avoid acidic spray solutions when applying copper. Dr. Lalancette has published a handy guide for copper applications in early covers. Antibiotics such as Mycoshield or Fireline may also be used and may offer slightly more residual activity during long wetting periods.

Filed Under: Fruit, Tree Fruit, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , ,