Growers should monitor for pests and diseases, even in the citrus under protective screen (CUPS) systems designed to keep HLB-spreading psyllids out of trees, according to entomologist Jawwad Qureshi. He told more than 25 people participating in a Dec. 1 virtual seminar that CUPS “are not foolproof systems,” and said citrus can’t be grown successfully without pest management. Qureshi works for the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee.
Qureshi said growers should scout to reduce risk and avoid surprises. Scouting can lessen damage to trees and fruit, lower production costs, optimize inputs and maximize profits. “If you let them (pests and diseases) go unrecognized, they can grow up to high populations” even in CUPS, he added.
Regarding control of the HLB-spreading Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Qureshi reported that:
- Significant effects of organic insecticides with 435 oil on ACP control and yield indicate potential use in all citrus.
- An organic management plan will help control ACP in organic citrus and …..
L earn more from Ernie Neff’s article about how to Scout for Problems, Even in CUPS on Citrus Industry website.