Question
I just noticed that my Donut Peach tree has some clear colored, sticky (sap type) substance on the branches ... what is this and how do I get rid of it safely?
Kathy
Orinda
Answer
If the sap you see is on the trunk and lower branches of the tree, I suspect that you may have Peach borer damage. The peach borer looks like a metallic blue wasp and lays its eggs in the bark. The larvae burrow in causing sap (and you may see frass- a sawdust like substance) to leak from the holes.
You can kill the larvae by inserting a thin wire or unbent paperclip into the holes. You may also want to spray the bark of the tree with Bonide Borer Miner Killer (available at any of our stores). If holes are not in evidence, the tree may be showing signs of gummosis disease. This occurs when the tree has received too much water or has poor drainage. This can also occur due to winter cold damage of new growth triggered by a late summer pruning.
Make sure that you feed the tree this spring and again in mid summer to promote vigor. The Miracle Gro Fruit Tree and Citrus spikes are easy to use…or use EB Stone All Purpose Food around the drip line. Be sure to water after feeding. Do not mulch your tree so the soil holds too much water.
Share this post
