What are the precautions for bark scraping of pear trees in winter?
I believe many farmer friends have heard the saying “If you want to eat good pears, scrape the tree bark in winter.” Winter bark scraping has a great impact on the growth of pear trees, so how should pear trees be scraped in winter? What should be paid attention to? Let's take a look together.
1. Master the timing of bark scraping
Bark scraping can be carried out throughout the entire dormant period of pear trees, but the best time is from December to January of the following year. In areas with warm winter temperatures, it can be done appropriately earlier, while in cold areas it can be done during the period from the Beginning of Spring to the Awakening of Insects.
2. Pay attention to the scraping position
Bark scraping of pear trees cannot be done on just any part. Generally, choose places with older tree age, thick trunks, and many rough, lifted, and cracked bark, as these parts also harbor more overwintering pests and diseases. The scraping position varies according to tree age. For trunks about 10 years old, within 40 cm near the ground, mainly scrape the bark on the south side of the tree body; while for plants more than 10 years old, mainly scrape the trunk. When rough bark appears on the main branches, it should be scraped off in time.
3. Bark scraping method
The outer bark layer of pear trees is thick and has many cracks, making it very easy for pathogens and pests to hide, so the scraping should be deep, mainly until the red inner bark is reached. Before scraping, spread plastic film and mats around the trunk so that the scraped debris can be collected centrally and burned, to prevent it from falling into the soil. Generally, scrape once every 1-2 years. As long as new cracked bark appears, it needs to be scraped in time. For plants with weaker growth, it cannot be scraped every year, and scraping should also be light. During the scraping process, if diseased scars are found, a set of disinfected tools needs to be used for treatment, and they must also be disinfected and stored after use, otherwise they are very easily infected by pathogens.
4. Treatment after bark scraping
After bark scraping, apply a protective agent. Quicklime, lime sulfur mixture, salt, and vegetable oil water can be mixed with water in a certain proportion, then brushed onto the trunk with a brush. If no protective agent is applied, then the injured parts will rot during the growing season due to pathogen infection.
The above is an introduction to the precautions for bark scraping of pear trees in winter. I hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please follow us.