skip to Main Content
Citrus
October / November 2022

Extension briefs for October and November 2022

SA Fruit Journal: October / November 2022

Extension briefs for October and November 2022

By Hannes Bester, MC Pretorius, Wayne Mommsen, Coenraad Fraenkel, André Combrink, Catherine Savage, Natasha Jackson and Jan Landman (Citrus Research International)

Integrated pest management

(T.G. Grout and S.D. Moore)

Thrips management

During October and November, the different citrus fruits are highly susceptible to damage from citrus thrips and orchards should be scouted for this pest at least once a week, being sure to look under the sepals. Citrus thrips larvae cause more serious damage than adult thrips, so low numbers of adults in the absence of larvae may not require immediate intervention. The intervention threshold for citrus thrips larvae on fruit is 2% for the first four weeks after petal fall, 3% for 5 – 6 weeks after petal fall, then 4% for 7 – 8 weeks after petal fall. These thresholds can be roughly doubled if the population comprises mostly adults. Citrus thrips are genetically predisposed towards developing resistance to pesticides, so avoid spraying two consecutive sprays of the same active ingredient. Treatments that give 6 – 8 weeks thrips' control will eliminate natural enemies of false codling moth (FCM), mealybug and scale insects for at least one month. So, if this degree of control is required, it is best to spray these at petal fall and follow up with softer options when necessary.

Read More
Back To Top