Pear Rust and Neem Oil

[BlueJ]

If this has been answered, I couldn’t find it. I have a kieffer pear tree. Last year I used Tater’s method to make and age some brandy/whiskey that is now delicious. This season my tree developed a bad case of pear rust which I treated successfully with neem oil. A couple months later now I have another decent crop about ready to harvest. Question is will the rust or neem oil have any effect and do I need to take any additional steps to clean the fruit. Neem oil instructions says it is safe for use on certain crops including stone fruit, but says nothing about safety 8 weeks post-application (or about freezing then fermenting!).

If anyone has experience with this - I would appreciate the advice.

[seamusm53]

I don't think there's a safety issue. Neem oil must be reapplied much sooner than 8 weeks for ongoing infection and is supposed to be safe on food crops much sooner - I have used it. The question will be taste and smell. I doubt it will still be hanging around two months after application - but I just do not know.

[BlueJ]

Thanks. I was thinking since its a natural oil and it has been washed off with rain for last couple months that it should be undetectable. I’ll give them a good rinse anyway. Just didn’t want to waste the effort if folks said the rust fungus or the oil somehow affected the fruit fermentation. Thanks again.

[Tōtōchtin]

We have Neem trees on the ranch,I've noticed it is quite bitter. I would peel some pears and soak the peels for a few days and taste it. I would worry more about the taste than the harm to your body.
Tōtō