Chat to the neighbour

You visit a similar adjoining property briefly, to see if the same symptoms are being exhibited there. They are not, but the neighbour, a congenial fellow with a large red beard, invites you in for a beer anyway.  As it's 11am you decline, but accept a cup of tea instead.

Whilst talking about horticultural prospects generally, you ask the neighbour about your client and his problem." I dunno, really" says the neighbour. "He always seems to be out spraying. Overspraying, I reckon!. Can too many sprays stunt their growth? For myself, I reckon the fewer sprays you can get away with the better but old Doug, well he pours it on. Hasn't done him much good has it!  My trees, well they aren't so bad. Mind you, I've ripped a lot of older ones out lately, like the Cox's orange and the Sturmers. The newer Pacific Rose and Braeburns are the ones to go for. I try to tell Doug but he reckons the old varieties are better tasting. Well, you grow what the customer wants, not necessarily what you like, that's my motto."

Declining a further offer of more sustained refreshment you thank your host for his hospitality and make your way back to your client's property.