HORTICULTURAL OIL AND LIME-SULPHUR SPRAY
What is it? Dormant oil and lime sulphur treatments have been used on roses, fruit trees and berry plants for many years. They clean deciduous trees of moss and algae as well as many overwintering insects.
Dormant oil is a horticultural oil (mineral oil) applied when a plant is dormant. This low-impact pesticide is used to treat trees and shrubs vulnerable to attack by insects (particularly scale insects) and mites.
Lime sulphur may be added for use on trees and shrubs as a fungicide (e.g. against apple and pear scab).
When to Apply Horticultural oil and lime sulphur may be used when the plants are dormant (in spring, before the buds open), or in lower concentrations during growth.
During dormancy, horticultural oil may be combined with lime sulphur, in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines.
During growth, wait at least 30 days between applying horticultural oil and lime sulphur.
In the dormant period, horticultural oil may be sprayed before the buds open and when there is no chance of rain or frost in the 24 hours following application.
For the most effective results, it is preferable to wait until the daytime temperature reaches 12-15 C three to four days in a row.
What you will need: Oil and Lime Sulphur - best to buy a mix
Follow package instructions and mix with water
Add to a pressure applicator and spray on all parts of the tree or bush
Lime Sulphur is highly corrosive so wear protective clothing, a mask, and gloves when applying. Do not mix with any other fungicide or other chemical. Read the product label carefully before use to find out how best to apply, plus the precautions to take during application, and the risk of phototoxicity for certain plants.