This is probably a common question on the forum but I couldn't find a recent occurence of it. Is there a general spray schedule--for the Portland OR area--on the HOS website for apple and pear pests and diseases?
Or, can someone point me to an online spray schedule that they trust?
I'm trying to improve my little neglected orchard and would actually like to get some fruit instead of letting the bugs have it all. It's nicely pruned and lots of fruit is set. I have been thinning the fruit, will apply footies. Help with spray?
Thanks! 
There are many schools of thought on this. For a broad picture, you could consider
a completely organic
b IPM as little synthetic as needed but maybe/probably some
c pure synthetics.
People have strong and varying views on these. Arguments about this are sometimes volatile. I like helping people but I don't like arguments.
Let someone else face the flames.
John S
PDX OR
John, I know these issues can be approached with organic measures. That's fine but this is a neglected orchard. I am willing to use some chemicals. I am taking responsibility for that, and am always cautious and conservative.
Is this topic so controversial that nobody wants to discuss it? 
Of the organics recommended: kaolin clay (surround)
neem oil
a Spinosad product ( Entrust, Bulls-eye, etc)
all have to be sprayed once a week, starting now...thoroughly cover the leaves and fruit....
kaolin clay is really really safe
neem is safe but it does kill some non-target bugs (or, as a minimum affects their behavior, mating, etc.)
spinosad is the one you have to be the most careful with, but it is still safer than any synthetic (which I personally believe are probably even safer than the stuff you read)........but that said, with a spinosad based product (which is a fermenting bacteria), you have to make sure no pets or children in the area for a day (?) or so after you spray and you need to do this in the evening after the bees have stopped flying......but while it takes only a modicum of protection, of the three organics mentioned here, a spinosad based product may be the most effective. Consult with the nursery where you buy the product on things like what the re-entry interval is and when it is safe to come back to the tree, etc.
DonRicks,
Thanks for this information, it's very helpful. I agree about some of the synthetics.
I'll be employing your suggestions. Also going to order fruit sox today - my trees have set quite a bit of fruit and that really motivates me to take care of them. I've been thinning apples and pears, and getting after a little nest of codling moth. Appreciate your help.
Idyllwild
simplepress
jafar
Marsha H
Viron
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