Apple tree fertilizer: instructions for use

The composition of the fungicide "Skor" and its principle of action

Skor is a long-acting, contact systemic fungicide designed for the prevention and treatment of many types of fungal diseases of fruit, vegetable, and flower crops. Skor is formulated with the active ingredient difenoconazole (250 g/l). This triazole is considered a moderately hazardous substance. It is available as an emulsifiable concentrate in the following forms:

• ampoule (2 ml);
• bottle (0.1–1 l);
• plastic bottle (1 l).

After treatment, all vegetative parts of the apple tree absorb the active ingredient, which then spreads throughout their tissues, suppressing the activity of pathogens. The effect of the treatment is noticeable within 2-3 hours. Skor not only acts as a powerful treatment but also provides long-term protection against relapse (up to 3 weeks). Its use has a beneficial effect on yield and fruit quality.

Instructions for use

The effectiveness of the treatment depends on how strictly the instructions for using the apple tree pesticide are followed. Specifically:

1. Compliance with recommended processing times.
2. Diluting the preparation with water in the required proportions.
3. Use only freshly prepared working solution.
4. Compliance with safety regulations.

For what diseases of apple trees can it be used?

The fungicide "Skor" helps combat many fungal diseases, for example:

• powdery mildew;
• root rot;
• late blight;
• gray mold;
• Alternaria;
• septoria;
• rust, etc.

In addition, skor has proven itself as an effective remedy for apple scab.

How to breed

The recommended water temperature for preparing the working solution is +25°C. Liquid consumption is:

• for an adult apple tree – 5 l;
• for a young tree – 2 l.

The dosage of the drug diluted with water depends on the disease it is intended to treat, for example:

• scab, powdery mildew – 2 ml/10 l;
• gray rot – 4 ml/10 l;
• Alternaria – 3.5 ml/10 l;
• spotting – 5 ml/10 l.

Algorithm for preparing a working solution:

1. Prepare the tank.
2. Fill it with water: ¼ or 1/10.
3. Add fungicide, adhering to the dosage indicated in the instructions.
4. Add the remaining water.
5. Mix the composition thoroughly.
6. Use within 24 hours of preparation.

Experienced gardeners recommend adding a small amount of soap to the working solution. This will help the fungicide adhere better to the surface being treated and stay there longer.

How to apply

Treat apple trees with Skor by spraying in dry weather (morning or evening). Wind speed should not exceed 5 m/s, meaning only slight swaying of the foliage is permissible.

Spraying is best done with a device that provides a "mist" spray—a soft, diffused spray that breaks the solution into numerous fine particles. This allows for the most even application across the leaf blades.

Processing times

As a preventative measure, apple trees are sprayed with "Skor" twice: before and after flowering, with a 20-day interval. For treatment of already infected trees, the treatment is repeated up to four times, with a 7-day interval.

Pros and cons of the drug

The fungicide "Skor" has a number of significant advantages:

• the ability to penetrate into the tissues of all parts of treated plants;
• destruction of pathogens in any weather conditions;
• providing protection for a relatively long period;
• broad spectrum of action, suitable for combating many fungal diseases, including rust treatments;
• stimulation of intensive growth of buds, shoots and leaves, increasing yield;
• good compatibility with most other preparations for treating orchards from diseases and pests;
• low toxicity, absolutely safe for plants;
• can be used during any growing season (except harvest);
• lack of tendency to oxidize when exposed to air, as well as to decomposition in soil;
• maintaining the original effectiveness when used for several seasons in a row.

The disadvantages of the drug include:

• too much consumption;
• decreased activity with decreasing temperature;
• the possibility of pathogen adaptation with regular use;
• high cost.

Precautionary measures

Despite the lack of toxicity, treating apple trees with skor requires following several rules:

1. Spray while wearing rubber gloves, a head covering, a respirator and work clothes.
2. Do not use fungicide near beehives or bodies of water where people swim or fish are kept.
3. Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking until after the procedure.
4. After treatment, thoroughly wash the used containers, wash your face and take a shower.

Storage rules

Store unopened Skor in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets. The product has a shelf life of 3 years from the date of manufacture. Once opened, use within the current season.