Apple Orchard Sprayer Quiz Quiz

Explore the best practices of apple spray schedules for disease and pest management in orchards, from spray timing to commonly used products and effects on fruit quality.

1. Optimal Timing for First Spraying

   When is the most appropriate time to apply the first fungicide spray to apple trees to control apple scab in a temperate climate?

   1. When fruit has matured
   2. At green tip stage
   3. At full bloom
   4. After petal fall

   Explanation: The first fungicide spray for apple scab is usually recommended at the green tip stage, as this is when tissues become susceptible. Spraying after petal fall or at full bloom is often too late for effective disease prevention. Waiting until fruit maturation misses the crucial window to protect young tissue.

2. Insect Pest Control Target

   Which of the following pests is most commonly targeted with insecticide sprays at the 'petal fall' stage in apple orchards?

   1. Apple aphid
   2. Apple scab
   3. Codling moth
   4. Fire blight

   Explanation: The codling moth is typically targeted with insecticide sprays at or just after the petal fall stage, as it lays eggs on young fruit. Apple aphid isn't primarily targeted at this stage, and fire blight and apple scab are diseases, not insect pests.

3. Role of Spray Intervals

   Why are regular spray intervals important in an apple spray schedule during periods of frequent rain?

   1. Sprays work better when washed off
   2. Rain can reduce the effectiveness of protective sprays
   3. Rain increases the concentration of pesticides
   4. Rain improves tree resistance to pests

   Explanation: Rain can wash off fungicides and insecticides, lowering their effectiveness and leaving apples vulnerable to infection or infestation. Rain does not increase pesticide concentration, improve resistance, or enhance efficacy by washing off sprays.

4. Use of Oil Sprays

   What is the main purpose of applying dormant oil sprays in late winter or early spring to apple trees?

   1. To control overwintering insect pests like scale and mite eggs
   2. To promote faster leaf development
   3. To prevent fruit drop
   4. To increase fruit sweetness

   Explanation: Dormant oil sprays are mainly used to smother and control overwintering pest eggs such as scales and mites. They do not enhance fruit sweetness, leaf growth, or directly prevent fruit drop.

5. Spray Impact on Fruit Quality

   How can improper timing or overuse of chemical sprays impact apple fruit quality at harvest?

   1. It always increases fruit shine
   2. It eliminates all fruit blemishes
   3. It may cause fruit russeting or chemical residues
   4. It guarantees larger fruit

   Explanation: Incorrect timing or excessive spraying can cause russeting (scarring) and leave chemical residues on apples. It does not guarantee more attractive or larger fruit, nor does it eliminate every possible blemish.