Tree Fruit Newsletter — August 22, 2023
Apple Maturity at Highmoor Farm
Paulared apples are not quite at their best for eating, but some of your customers might like them this way. Starch index of 1.5.
Zestar! Starch index is 2.8. They are still starchy and lacking in color. Flavor should be good, based on how ours taste.
We have another summer apple called Arkcharm which is past its best ripeness and getting soft. Good flavor and color for a summer apple.
Summer Pruning of Peach Trees
It might be getting late for summer pruning, but removing a few shoots could improve flower bud formation and bud hardiness on lower limbs. Remove a few shoots on the upper branches if you want to save the lower ones.
Predicted McIntosh Harvest Dates
Sanford: Sept. 18
Turner: Sept. 23
Madison: Sept. 26
Caribou: Sept. 24
We are passing the window for using ReTain® to delay the start of harvest which is 3 to 4 weeks ahead of anticipated first pick.
To extend the harvest without delaying the start, apply ReTain 1 to 2 weeks before anticipated first pick, keeping in mind that ReTain has a 7-day preharvest interval.
To delay the start of harvest and to extend the harvest window, apply ReTain at 3 to 4 weeks and again about 10 days before anticipated first pick.
Messages from other growers
Blueberry plants for sale. For more info, contact Paul Peters at (207)-441-6250, pumpkinpaul1@aol.com.
Renae Moran
UMaine Cooperative Extension Tree Fruits Program
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
PO Box 179
Monmouth, ME 04259
(207) 933-2100
rmoran@maine.edu
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