The CTIFL trial in control and indirect defence against Drosophila suzukii

13 Aug 2024
1981

The afternoon of July 9th, the traditional technical presentation of cherry trees was held at the CTIFL headquarters in La Tapy. An annual event highly anticipated by cherry tree professionals, not only to learn about the progress made with this species but also to exchange ideas with their counterparts.

This year, the event was also well attended, and experts in the field were pleased to share the results of their trials. The afternoon was divided into two parts: indoor lectures followed by a field visit.

New products for defense against Drosophila suzukii

The goal of CTIFL is to support the profession in the face of fluctuations in economic, climatic, and pest conditions. The experts therefore presented the results of tests on products and strategies.

Three trials on Larvasoil did not demonstrate the effectiveness of this specialty, as well as the Neemazal from the SudExpe station or the 23-ADS-001, a product formulated with essential oils and the CTI 24 1, a new product. Neemazal gave contrasting results depending on the trials. Several different control strategies were also tested.

The parasitoid Ganaspis kimorum

The Drosophila suzukii is very present in orchards. Adrien Le Navenant from INRAE presented the progress of research on the release of Ganaspis Kimorum (parasitoid micro wasps). Ganaspis Kimorum will be released in 38 test sites in Vaucluse. The first laboratory results show that this parasite effectively and specifically attacks Drosophila suzukii in ripening fruits, thus limiting undesirable effects.

Researchers are continuing releases at other test sites and will monitor the introduction of the parasitoid for several years to evaluate the effectiveness of this strategy.

Protection with nets

Finally, to conclude the classroom sessions, two engineers from Michelin presented a prototype for the mechanization of nets for the protection of orchards against pests and climatic adversities (deployment and folding). After the lectures, participants were invited to visit a plot where tests were conducted with different types of insect nets.

All descriptions and results of these tests are available in the presentations by Sefra, SudExpé, and CTIFL (Read the presentations)

Source: CTIFL
Image: SL Fruit Service


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Spraying drones on cherry trees in Michigan (USA): targeted defence and high precision

Crop protection

04 Apr 2025

In Michigan, spraying drones revolutionise pest control for cherry trees. Effective against cylindersporiosis, they also reach the upper canopy with precise and targeted treatments. A new frontier for precision agriculture applied to the cherry tree.

New Zeland cherry exports hit record: volumes up 33%, booming in Asia and US

Markets

09 Apr 2025

New Zealand cherries hit a historic record: 5.07 million kg exported (+33%) and export value over NZD 124 million. Asia, US and Middle East drive demand, with high prices and strong prospects for the cherry industry and wider horticulture sector.

In evidenza

Comparing strategies to improve fruit set in sweet cherry under protected cultivation in China

Tech management

21 Oct 2026

A study of greenhouse-grown Sunburst sweet cherries in Beijing, China, compares hand pollination, growth regulators and honey bees. Hand pollination raises fruit set to 71.68% while maintaining good fruit firmness. Costs and results across seasons still need assessment.

Proper management of cherry orchards: an expert’s advice on fertilisation and irrigation

Tech management

21 Oct 2026

Cherry irrigation and fertilization: practical guidance on water, nutrients and root growth. Learn how irrigation frequency, calcium and nitrogen applications, soil inspections and compaction management can support fruit quality, healthy roots and productive orchards.

Tag Popolari