The presence of the El Niño phenomenon generated favourable climatic conditions for the development of Drosophila suzukii, a fly that threatens cherry orchards this season. The higher relative humidity resulting from a cooler and wetter spring, especially in central and southern regions, could favour an increase in the populations of this pest from the veraison phase, when the fruit is more susceptible to attack.
Despite the good climatic conditions for the spread of Drosophila suzukii, experts point out that growers have gained more knowledge about the pest in previous years, which enables them to control it more effectively and minimise risks. Although conditions are favourable, the experts believe that the worst is over and that it is now up to growers to keep the situation under control.
Despite the apparent improvement in weather conditions, experts emphasise the importance of monitoring and controlling the presence of Drosophila suzukii in orchards. Mass traps strategically placed in the orchard and surrounding areas, especially where fly host species are present, are recommended.
Surveillance and application of insecticides are essential, especially from the colour break, when cherry trees are most susceptible to this pest.
1) Ciclo di vita da uovo a adulto tra 8-18 giorni. 2) Tre le 10-15 generazioni l'anno. 3) Longevità tra 21-66 giorni. 4) Una femmina può deporre tra 400-600 uova. 5) Può deporre fino a 3 uova per frutto.
The experts also emphasise the need for adequate rotation of the active ingredients of the insecticides used, as Drosophila suzukii can develop resistance to the products. They also emphasise the importance of continuing research and development of biological tools such as repellents, chilli and garlic extracts, as well as fungal and bacterial products, to complement control strategies.
In conclusion, despite growers' experience, the presence of El Niño and current climatic conditions require constant vigilance and preventive measures to protect cherry orchards from the threat of Drosophila suzukii.
Source: Cerezos Chile
Images: Cerezos Chile
07 Aug 2024
They noticed this during the last few seasons in Chile, in which dry and humid years alternated. What was seen was that during dry springs Alternaria dominates, while when springs are wet, Botrytis is the predominant pathogen.
19 Jan 2024
According to the US Department of Agriculture, Michigan had 23,000 acres of sour cherries in 2022. The number of growers decreased from 540 in 2006 to 253 in 2022. The number of processors also decreased from 24 in 2011 to 14 in 2023.
14 Jul 2026
A study assesses walnut and hazelnut water pollen extracts as natural alternatives to IBA in the micropropagation of CAB-6P and Gisela 6 cherry rootstocks, highlighting effects on rooting, shoot growth, chlorophyll, carbohydrates and in vitro plant quality and vigor.
14 Jul 2026
A field study in Prosser, Washington, examines how horticulturists, growers and pruners choose where to cut cherry and apple trees, turning expert intuition into explicit rules for automated dormant pruning, crop-load management and more consistent orchard decisions.
