Spotted Wing Drosophila, a well-known pest that infests ripe, ready-to-eat fruit, poses a significant threat to farmers because it is very difficult to control with standard pesticides. A new approach to tackling this pest involves manipulating the behavior of these insects by disguising healthy fruit as if it were infected with an unappealing pathogen.
By studying the specific odors emitted by infected fruit, researchers have identified the chemicals that repel the flies when applied to healthy fruit and are developing a slow-release device to disperse these fruity odors in the field, ensuring that they do not come into direct contact with the fruit. This method provides a new tool to help farmers protect their crops without relying exclusively on insecticides.
Source: USDA
Image: USDA
18 Sep 2024
The BBCH scale is used to describe and label the phenological stages of plants. The abbreviation BBCH derives from Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie. Initially developed for cereals, later was adapted to other species, such as cherry.
13 Jun 2023
The water supply during the fruit-growing season is directly correlated with fruit growth and yield, thereby allowing fruit to reach the appropriate size at harvest. Conversely, excessive preharvest water supplies may negatively impact the fruit storabilty.
10 Aug 2026
In cherry trees, adequate chill accumulation is essential for uniform bud break and flowering. Hydrogen cyanamide and bud-break agents help manage dormancy, advance harvest timing and improve fruit quality, pollination, fruit set and overall orchard performance.
10 Aug 2026
British Columbia cherries are expanding across the United States, Asia and the Middle East through premium quality, late-season varieties and export strategies. Global Fruit is targeting greater diversification as Canadian growers face climate risks, competition and changing mark
