Apple trees can be an excellent addition to a fruit and vegetable garden. Apple trees can produce fruit beginning in late spring and continue throughout the summer. In addition to pruning and training an apple tree, owners should be sure to prevent pests. If left untreated, apple trees can attract a variety of insects that will harm the tree and can add disease to the tree.
Cut out all dead wood from the tree and remove dead fruit from on or around the tree. Clear leaves and other debris from the tree, as these elements can attract pests.
Apply a phosmet insecticide during petal fall, when about 90 percent of the blooms' petals have fallen to the ground. Reapply the treatment approximately 10 to 14 days later. Phosmet will prevent pests that include codling moth, green fruit worm and apple sawfly.