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Granny Smith Apples
This area has a permanent under storey dominated by cow parsley. This provides nectar and
pollen for beneficial insects including parasitoid wasps (e.g. Trichogramma) for the control of
leaf roller and codling moth caterpillars. The cow parsley also out competes grasses above
ground while not competing significantly with apple tree roots. Cow parsley leaves are also
likely to trap spores of the black spot
fungus which over winters on fallen
leaves and shoots spores back up to
the foliage in spring.
The BHU has over 50 cultivars of
apples some highly suitable for the
organic situation though many
displaying poor market qualities (e.g.
short keeping, small size or unsuitable
colouring). Many are suitable for direct
marketing.
The seasonal control of the under
storey should be preformed by mid-November
to prevent black spot spores
from leaf litter reaching the foliage and
fruit.
Sprays that may be applied are:
- EM (Effective Microorganisms) sprays
- Fish/Seaweed fertiliser sprays
- Equisetum (Common Horsetail spray to help with Blackspot prevention)
- Bacillus thuringiensis for Codling Moth control
Shelterbelts have been thinned out to improve airflow.
'Granny Smith' is a useful multipurpose late-season apple
- moderate black spot damage does not preclude use for
processing (black spot at extremely low level in some
years). Irrigation has been installed in all orchard areas.
