How to winter wash trees

Spraying in this way can help control pests and diseases by knocking out overwintering eggs, removing debris and reducing fungal spores. It's especially useful for controlling aphids and woolly aphids on fruit trees like apples, cherries and plums. However you may also remove overwintering aphid predators such as queen wasps, as well as other hibernating wildlife.

Follow our guide to winter washing trees, below.

You Will Need

• Winter wash solution
• Measuring jug
• Pressure sprayer
• Soft brush

Total time: 45 minutes

Step 1

Read the directions for use to get the measurement for the concentrate right, and pour it into the sprayer.

Step 2

Add the right amount of water to dilute the concentrate and shake to mix it well. Wipe up any drips from the outside of the sprayer. Prepare to spray on a dry, still day.

Step 3

Spray the wash into all the bark crevices around buds and the joints of branches. If necessary, use a soft brush.

Safety first

Wear protective gloves and goggles winter washing your trees, and avoid breathing in the spray. 

Plants to winter wash

• Apples
• Pears
• Plums
• Cherries
• Blackberries
• Blackcurrants
• Grapevines