Lemon trees (Citrus limon) create edible fruit and fragrant flowers in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. This broadleaf evergreen is susceptible to various problems such as insect infestation and fungal disease. When these pests attack the lemon tree, applying particular sprays will help control the issue and protect the fruit.
Oil Sizes
Neem oil and horticultural oil are just two pesticides which may control both insects and fungal diseases. Neem oil is plant-based, created in the neem tree, while horticultural oil is mineral-based, typically containing refined oil. Previously, horticultural oils were just used as a dormant spray since their heavier temperament would hurt leaf buds. Horticultural oils can now be applied anytime during the season. Oil sprays control sap-sucking garden pests, powdery mildew and oily spot. Oil sprays can harm lemon trees if applied at temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and multiple programs may be necessary to completely rid the lemon tree of this pestcontrol.
Insecticidal Soap
Insecticidal soap controls various species of garden pests including scales, aphids and mealybugs. This all-purpose pesticide breaks down fairly quickly and won’t leave remaining substances behind. Once the pesticide dries on the plant, it is no longer effective. As it controls aphids — that transmit the damaging Citrus tristeza virus in one plant into another — insecticidal soap plays a very important part in keeping viruses at bay. Insecticidal soaps are best against soft-body pests insects such as thrips and mites.
Copper Fungicide
Copper fungicide has long been used to control various bacteria and fungi infecting plants such as lemon trees. It interferes with the fungal pathogen’s enzyme system and disrupts the seams’ germination procedure. It controls scab, botrytis diseases, anthracnose, citrus blast and septoria place. Copper fungicides are safe to use on the lemon tree up to 24 hours before harvest. Normally, copper fungicide isn’t harmful to birds or mammals but is highly toxic to fish and other organisms. Repeated uses of copper fungicide can cause a buildup in the soil.
Bacterium Insecticide
Bacillus thuringiensis is great for targeting particular lemon pests such as the larvae of butterflies and moths. This includes leaf-eating caterpillars, bagworms, hornworms, tent caterpillars, leaf rollers, loopers and webworm. Bacillus thuringiensis is a naturally occurring bacterium that acts as a stomach poison which prevents the larvae from eating. The larvae will starve and die in two to four days. Each strain of Bacillus thuringiensis targets specific pests. As an example, kurstaki targets the larval stages of moths and butterflies, and israelensis controls fungus gnat and mosquito larvae. Bacillus thuringiensis is nontoxic to mammals, mammals, mammals, birds, fish and other beneficial insects.