Blog: Don’t panic – it’s nature’s way of coping with excess fruitlets
June drop, ‘The June drop’ or fruit drop occurs mostly on apple trees, but it happens to my Japanese blood plum Lizzie too. You’ll also see it on citrus trees (more on that here) and other stone fruits.
It’s generally nothing to worry about, simply nature’s way of getting rid of excess fruit. The prime example of this is my apple Red Falstaff, which this year covered approximately five immature fruitless per cluster.
After the winds of ex-tropical storm Alex a couple of days ago, each spur has been reduced to two or three. A little dramatic, but it’s just a faster version of what happens every year. You shouldn’t lose all your fruit!
Shedding lots of immature fruit means the crop that is left can grow to its full potential and ripen properly. Don’t forget, apples are large fruits. Just one in 20 flowers needs to reach maturity for a full crop. However, for smaller fruits like cherries, a much higher percentage of the flowers must be set.
Why the June drop lasts longer than June
The peak of the June drop is about eight weeks after flowering, so fruit loss can go on until mid-July. Just to be on the safe side, don’t thin any more until the end of July. If you still have too many apples on the tree, then thin them.
Of course, there can be other reasons for a tree to drop its fruit, especially when young. If your tree loses most or all of its crop every year, something is wrong. If it flowers early, poor weather or lack of pollination could be to blame, especially in colder areas. Try planting a late-flowering tree recommended for your climate.
If that’s not to blame, try gradual pruning spread over several seasons to open up the canopy and let more light in.
Other causes of the June drop
A lack of nitrogen could be the problem. Top-dress with Growmore each spring but don’t overdo it. Too much nitrogen can lead to the dropping of fruit.
Dryness at the roots, especially in spring, is a good bet, especially in Eastern and Southern counties. Mulch in spring and autumn and water during dry spells.
New research has shown competition for carbohydrates can lead to fruit drops. This can happen during the day when it’s cool and cloudy or on warm nights. Trees will prioritise overall health over this year’s crop. Young trees really suffer, which is why you’re often advised to remove fruit in the first year or two so it can get established.
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