Gardeners warned against spraying shrubs and trees in May or June

Gardeners have been warned not to spray their shrubs or trees during the crucial months of May and June. This is a key period when crops are sprouting, bushes are bursting into bloom, and trees are starting to showcase their flowers.

However, horticultural experts are raising the alarm about a harmful practice that could wreak havoc at this delicate time. During May, hedges, bushes, and fruit-bearing trees such as apple, pear, and olive varieties are either in full flower or just beginning to blossom, a process that often extends into June or even July.

As reported by the Express, gardeners are typically proactive in combating pests that pose a threat to their cherished blooms and, more importantly, to trees that are expected to yield fruit later in the season.

Read more:

• 'Brilliant' garden weeding hack for block paving helps nature 'kill them' for you

• Cheap everyday household items that work wonders in the garden

Yet, there's a stark warning for green-fingered enthusiasts: refrain from spraying trees, hedges, or bushes with pesticides in May or June. The reason behind this cautionary advice is that spraying plants while they're flowering can not only obliterate the blossoms but also exterminate all the bees and other pollinators that visit them.

OrchardPeople emphasises the importance of timing when it comes to treating apple trees, stating: "Timing matters when it comes to spraying apple trees. If you get the timing right, you can prevent many apple tree pest and disease problems. If you get it wrong, you can kill beneficial insects and damage your trees.

"In general when the flowers are out and in bloom, it is not a good idea to spray since this can damage the flowers and hence the fruit. However certain pests and diseases can also infect the tree during this time, such as fireblight and European Apple Sawfly. Therefore for most pests and diseases, we recommend spraying either before full bloom or right after."