Horticulturalist Duncan Cocking, who runs Kyneton-based Leaf, Root & Fruit, discusses Queensland Fruit Fly.
Last autumn, I was full of despair and panic about discovering Queensland Fruit Fly in my homegrown fruit for the first time ever. Well, they’re back.
Fortunately, the damage is limited to one tree thus far, and only around 20% of the fruit on that tree was affected. But those pesky flies will continue to breed and infect future crops, so I’ll continue to be vigilant. My number one aim is to prevent fruit from falling from the tree. It’s the easiest way to break the life cycle. Any fruit that I identify as infested is cut up and placed in the freezer for 24 hours.
If you’re dealing with your own Queensland Fruit Fly infestation, here are a few control options to consider:
- Net your tree with insect exclusion netting. This needs to be done before the outbreak occurs and you need to ensure no fruit is touching the netting – the flies can sting through the netting.
- Practise good hygiene. Pick fruit before it falls and break the life cycle.
- Use baits. Spinosad is a certified organic bait that you can spray in locations around your orchard. Be mindful that “certified organic” products can be just as harmful to beneficial bugs as synthetic products.
- Use traps. There are many different types of traps available, and it’s easy to make basic DIY traps.
I’m just beginning my journey with Queensland Fruit Fly, but one of my readers, Eileen, has been successfully managing it for years and she kindly agreed to share her wisdom with my readers. Read Eileen’s account here.
Happy gardening!
Duncan
🍑 For more gardening tips see my latest planting guide and garden update.