It all starts with intense pruning every fall of all diseased/damaged branches. If you're not sure how to prune, a good arborist can be very helpful; books are also a tree-mendous resource.

Any diseased or insect infested parts should be completely removed from your property or burned. Don't let the pests stick around! Follow up with a good spray of horticultural oil and you're ready to take a break for the winter.

Be sure you have a place where you've planted beneficial insect attracting plants. If you find that you haven't planned ahead for this, simply leave some portion of the area un-tended. If you allow this location to overwinter without pruning back (dead-heading), you can be sure your beneficials have a special place to reside through the winter.

In early spring, spray all above ground parts (be sure to avoid the soil beneath your tree) again with horticultural oil before bud break and again at bud break (this is when the little leaves and flowers are just swelling open). Horticultural oil kills the eggs of many overwintering pests and also prevents disease.

Ensure pollination with bee attractants or by purchasing bees. Many cities and towns have a shortage of good pollinators and could cause you to have no fruit!

Most fruits are also prone to certain bacterial infections which can be easily controlled with a fixed copper spray. Spray copper at the first showing of flower petals (petal show) and again at petal drop.

Beneficial nematodes should be applied in the spring to kill the overwintering stages of many pests in the soil. Certain pests, however, can migrate in from long distances, so you may have to monitor for these pests. Contact your local extension agent for details.

Plant flowering beneficial insect attracting plants strategically to help you combat future weeds under your trees and to attract your own personal guard force!

Fertilize during the summer months. A good soil test will show you which nutrients you need for the fruits you're growing, so it's a good idea to test before you spend money on things you don't need!

If you are just switching to organic or are taking over a new backyard, you can safely assume that you need to apply lots of organic matter – think compost, kelp meal, alfalfa meal, neemcake and anything else you can get your hands on.

We also are very excited to recommend our completely organic fertilizer blend especially designed for fruit and berry growers. One needs about 1lb of organic fertilizer per 100 sq. ft. or 400 lbs per acre.

Have a picnic under your lush developing orchard canopy and plan for a little summer thinning to ensure good air circulation and even ripening. When fall comes again, harvest and enjoy!