Q: I’ve tried to grow peaches and nectarines for years but I’m on the edge of pulling them out this year, that is unless you can give me some hope to control the wretched fruit fly?
Colin B., Dural, NSW
A: At the last Department of Primary Industries meeting I attended, the officer explained no single treatment will stop them. It will always be multi-pronged approach to control this pest. Always bin any fallen fruit.
1. Exclusion netting has been and is still the best non-chemical control. Either exclusion bags for individual fruit or netting the whole tree. Remember to apply netting after flower pollination.
2. Baiting to attract both male and female fruit fly. The bait is painted onto stems and leaves but timing is critical. Apply the bait before flies are about and repeat after rain.
3. Traps. Most traps use a lure or attractant with an insecticide to kill the insect. Some attract female flies, others male. Look for eco-lure fruit fly trap (OCP), Cera Trap (Amgrow) or Nature's Way Fruit Fly Control (Yates).
Ask Us
Ring the Helpline any day between 10am – 2pm with your questions. Have your membership number and your expiry date handy. Dial 1300 133 100 and press 1 for our helpful horticulturist. Or email your questions to help@gardenclinic.com
We hope you have enjoyed this article so far.
One of the many benefits of Garden Clinic membership is full access to our website. Members please log in to view the complete articles.
If you are not a Garden Clinic member and wish to access our website as well as enjoy the many benefits of membership, including access to our Helpline 7 days a week, please visit the link below to join us.