Drosophila suzukii control: Intervention in organic stone fruit orchards (Biofruitnet Practice Abstract)

Summary in the original language of the document

The combination of preventive measures and intervention measures can reduce due to D. suzukii puncture and/or development of larvae inside the fruits, and therefore minimise economical losses.
Practical recommendation
• Netting (+++): Use nets whit meshes that do not deform and a max. mesh size of 1.0x1.0 mm. Close the nets immediately after flowering. Avoid contact of the net with fruits. This measure is not possible for high-stem cherry orchards.
• Mass trapping (++): Suitable for apricot and plums but does not work from the beginning of cherry rip-ening onwards, as cherries are more attractive than the bait trap. Use commercial or self-built traps out of plastic bottles with 5 mm holes on the top (best in red or black). Self-made bait mixture: 1/3 water, 1/3 apple cider vinegar, 1/3 red wine, 0.05% acetone (optional), and two drops of odourless liquid soap.
• Spraying kaolin or slaked lime as a deterrent (+): Kaolin (2 %) or slaked lime (0.18 %) application with 500-1000 l/ha water during warm weather conditions (>20 °C) and low relative humidity (~30 %). Spray weekly from colour change of fruits (from yellow to red) on. It causes spray stains and therefore is un-suitable for crops for fresh consumption.
• Spraying Spinosad (+): Spinosad (0.02 %) has a partial effect, not sufficient as a sole measure. This treatment causes measurable residues: Strictly adhere to waiting periods and application rates. It is toxic to beneficial insects and bees: do not apply on crops still in bloom and on damaged fruit with juice discharge. Check if Spinosad is approved or needs a special permit in your country.