Dormant Oil

Pronunciation: /DOR-ment OIL/

Category: Pest Control

Singular: Dormant Oil

Plural: Dormant Oils

Definition

A petroleum-based oil spray applied to plants during their dormant season (typically winter) to control overwintering pests such as mites, aphids, and scale insects.

Etymology

From the Latin 'dormiens', meaning 'sleeping' or 'inactive', referring to the plant's state during winter.

Example

Dormant oil applications are used to control overwintering pests on fruit trees before bud break.

Synonyms

Winter Oil

Related Terms

Insect control
Mite control
Scale control
Winter treatments

Usage Notes

Dormant oils should only be applied when the plant is dormant and the temperature is above freezing. Application during active growth can cause phytotoxicity.