Factors to Consider before Treating

Trees and shrubs are usually selected for use in the landscape based on their ornamental features, such as spring flowers, fall color, and fruit. All species of trees and shrubs produce some type of flowers and fruit, but not all of them are showy.

Fruit production is part of the plant’s natural development. A plant that produces a large amount of fruit may be a desirable ornamental feature or be used to feed wildlife. Despite the value of a flowering and fruiting plant, some people consider spent flowers and fallen fruit to be undesirable litter.

There are several methods to remove fruit or prevent fruiting.

Hand-removing spent flowers or small fruits will work on a small tree, but is not a practical solution for large trees or extensive plantings.

Chemical sprays and injections can be more practical methods. Applying a spray treatment to a large tree can be a messy and time-consuming activity for a homeowner. Consider hiring a professional for that type of treatment. Products that need to be injected into the tree must be applied by an arborist.

Consider the following before you decide to treat.

Amount of Fruit Production

The amount of fruit a plant can produce varies from year to year. Many plants will produce heavily one year and lighter the next. Insects, diseases, and damage to flower blooms can reduce fruit production. Hand-removal of spent flowers is one way to eliminate unwanted fruit.

Plant Removal

If maintenance is a problem, does the plant warrant keeping? Attempting to remove fruit will become a yearly expenditure of time and money. When all options have been considered, it may be wise to remove the plant and replace it with something more suited to the planting site.

Size of Tree

If the tree is too large to spray yourself, you may have to hire a licensed professional to achieve adequate results. Products that need to be injected into the tree must be applied by an arborist.

Timing of Application

Whether you hire a professional or do the work yourself, it is essential to spray at the proper time for best results. The window of opportunity varies with the species of plant, as well as the product to be used. Injected products often give a longer window of opportunity.

When and How to Spray

Timing

The window of opportunity for sprayed treatments is during flowering, before fruit sets, usually from flower buds to the full bloom stage. It is imperative that you spray at this time for the chemicals to be most effective. Spraying before or after flowering results in wasted time and money. The label of the product you use will give you precise instructions on how to use it.

Temperature

Many of the sprays used to reduce fruit production are hormone-based products. Hormone-based sprays are influenced by weather conditions. Temperature at the time of application is important, so follow label directions exactly.

Use Correct Concentrations

A too-low concentration can increase fruit set. Excess applications may cause damage to the plant.

Spray Only Stress-Free Plants

Plants being treated should be healthy and vigorous. Spraying plants that are stressed can injure them.

Use pesticides safely and wisely; read and follow label directions. The pesticide information presented here is current with federal and state regulations. The user is responsible for determining that the intended use is consistent with the label of the product being used. The information given here is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement is made by The Morton Arboretum.

Seedless Cultivars

If fruit from trees is not desired, choose plants that have seedless cultivars. A true seedless cultivar is the only guaranteed method to eliminate fruit.

Check with local nurseries to see which seedless or male cultivars they carry.