Whitewashing fruit trees

[EastTexas22]

Today I painted some trees with a water based latex indoor flat white paint. I didn’t mix the paint 50/50 with water. I just painted the trees straight out of the can. Will this harm the trees? They’re trees between 3-6 years. Thanks !

 

[Turkey Creek]

I would say they should be fine, but no 1st hand experience painting trunks that thoroughly.

 

[hunts_with_stick]

Why before winter? I thought to prevent Sun scald?

 

[EastTexas22]

Trying to avoid winter scald here as well as sun burn in summer.. wasn’t thinking and didn’t dilute the paint.. really ticked off at myself. Hope I don’t damage my trees!

 

[hunts_with_stick]

Interesting, thanks for sharing

 

[Kooch]

Some guys (me included) use a 50/50 mixture of that white paint and joint compound. The theory is the joint compound makes it tougher and might help with apple borers. Straight paint will be fine I bet.

Another outside the box idea is to squirt a little permethrin in the mix too. I have not done that.


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[Catscratch]

I've heard of that kooch but haven't tried it. Don't see how it could hurt.

 

[hunts_with_stick]

What are apple borers? do apple orchards do this?

 

[Maddog66]

I use cheap white latex paint straight from the can all the time.

Unless its somehow attracting bears to my trees, I’ve had no issues.

 

[EastTexas22]

Thanks guys! I’m learning.. I appreciate y’all’s responses..

 

[b116757]

Apple bores got two of my trees last year before I figured out what was going on. I lost one 20 year old Haralson and I’ve got a Redfree on the ropes will see if it makes it next year.