SAVE OUR CITRUS

GALL WASP WON’T KILL YOUR FRUIT TREE BUT IT WILL STUNT ITS PRODUCTIVITY. HERE’S HOW AND WHEN TO CONTROL THIS PROLIFIC PEST

Kerry Boyne

Citrus gall wasp (Bruchophagus fellis) is an Australian native insect pest whose natural host is the Australian finger lime (Citrus australasica) but which now presents one of the most common problems in backyard citrus trees. All citrus trees can be attacked. The insects invade young, fresh tree growth in spring, causing lumpy, woody galls (pictured above) to form around the developing larvae. It’s easy to spot the galls on branches, but not so easy to manage. It’s a matter of taking the right steps at the right time. This pest is native to northern New South Wales and Queensland but is now widespread in most areas where citrus is grown. The adult wasps normally don’t move very far but can be carried on the wind from neighbouring properties or on…

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Good Organic Gardening (Digital) - 1 Issue, 15.4

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