As if California grape growers didn’t have enough pest issues to deal with, UCCE Entomologist Surendra Dara reported a recent resurgence of the Western Grapeleaf Skeletonizer in California.  Watch this brief interview with Dara, as he shares where the pest is resurfacing and how growers can manage it both conventionally and organically.  Read more about it in American Vineyard Magazine. …

Masked Chafer (AKA white grubs) have been problematic for blueberry growers, particularly in the Central Valley of California.  The good news is that researchers and entomologists have come up with both organic and conventional methods treatments for these soil pests.  Watch this brief interview UC Cooperative Extension Farm Advisor David Haviland to learn about these options and read more about …

Navel Orangeworm is widely known as a serious pest in tree nuts; however, it is also becoming quite the nuisance in California’s fig crop as well.  Check out this brief interview with Brad Higbee, now Field Research & Development Manager for Trece, Inc. as he talks about the work they are doing to help fig growers, and read more about …

Researchers and growers are tackling the formidable tree nut pest Navel Orangeworm from all fronts.  One method underway is in utilizing the same sterile insect technology and facility that eradicated pink bollworm from the cotton industry years ago.  There have been some challenges in adapting the system for Navel Orangeworm, as shared by Bob Klein from the Pistachio Research Board; …

Navel Orangeworm has become a serious pest in California for many agricultural commodities, especially for tree nuts.  Mating disruption technology has proven to be a critical tool in managing this pest; however some growers may have concerns with utilizing this technology on their farms.  Check out this brief interview with Brad Higbee, now Field Research & Development Manager for Trece, …

Citrus thrips have been a major nuisance for California blueberry growers, but how do you keep them under control and when should you apply crop protection materials? Is there an organic treatment available? Watch this brief interview UC Cooperative Extension Farm Advisor David Haviland as he answers all these questions. Read more about blueberry pest management in California Fresh Fruit …

Insects are much easier to manage when they start off the season in similar stages of development.  Unfortunately, that is not always the case, especially when you start off the season with inconsistent weather patterns.  Watch this brief interview with UCCE Entomologist out of Kern County, David Haviland, as he explains this with regard to mealybugs.