We have saw flies here in Australia and because of this we have a serious Pear and PLum slug issue. Our pears, plums and cherries are being attacked. Any suggestions on how to combat these leaf eating pests?
Pear and Plum Slug - HELP!
- Thread starter Enonymous
- Start date
One interesting method of battling Pear Sawfly (Caliroa cerasi) is to mulch under the trees in Summer with several layers of cardboard. This can preventt the larvae from safely overwintering in the ground under the tree. At least it is a good adjunct with other methods
Of course, insecticidal soap, neem oil & other light oils, and spinosad can sometimes be effective on the larvae. Spinosad is toxic to bees, so don't use while the trees are in flower.
Of course, insecticidal soap, neem oil & other light oils, and spinosad can sometimes be effective on the larvae. Spinosad is toxic to bees, so don't use while the trees are in flower.
Spinosad? never heard of it. Is it a natural substance?
Spinosad is a bacterial toxin used as an insecticide. It is somewhat broad-spectrum in that it can poison many kinds of insects, but it is preferred for environmental reasons because it has a short half-life and low vertebrate toxicity. Still, it should be used judiciously.
I've read that it is used in Australia, but I don't know in what capacity and if it is available to hobbyist growers.
I've read that it is used in Australia, but I don't know in what capacity and if it is available to hobbyist growers.