Apricot And Plum Flowers Drop/bug Eaten?

Question

Hello, this spring 2021, during blooming time, both my apricot and S. Rosa plum tree dropped all the blossoms. I took some pictures of the flowers and i suspect that there was a bug infestation that eat/destroyed the blossoms. Blossom seem to be either partially eaten by a bug or are are completely detached leaving only the stem. Do you have any idea of what was the cause and the possible remedy I need to take for next year crop? Thanks for your recommendations Paolo

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Answer 1

The first thing to do will be to make sure that the cultivars that you have chosen are able to fruit in your area. Many cultivars of Apricot and Plum will require a certain number of chill hours in the 40's F. In your area, it can be tricky to find cultivars that will fruit reliably and have a low chill requirement.

Next to check will be the feed that you are using. Fertilizers that are high in Nitrogen will lead to bloom drop, when it is time for flowering. Higher numbers of Phosphorus and Potassium will help with bloom and fruit production.

Here are some articles that will help you to care for your trees:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/apricots/apricot-tree-growing.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/plum/growing-plum-trees.htm