Drosophila suzukii (known in English as Spotted Wing Drosophila or SWD) is an invasive species first detected in Michigan in 2010. It is now a key pest for ripening cherries and berries.
A new factsheet outlines the current best practices for monitoring the pest and preventing fruit infestation in cherry orchards.
• Protect ripening fruit until harvest using effective insecticides, with short treatment intervals and thorough coverage.
• Adjust pest management programs under high-risk conditions, such as rainy periods and high exposure to UV rays, to ensure effectiveness.
• Check fruit directly for larvae as harvest approaches.
• If possible, avoid delays in harvest: overripe fruit left in the orchard is highly susceptible to infestations.
Read the full guide here:
Source: Michigan State University Extension
Image source: Tim Haye, Le Matin
30 May 2025
The opening of the Chinese market to Jerte cherries marks a new chapter for Spain's cherry sector, but brings complex export protocols. José Antonio Tierno stresses the need for caution, as past experiences with other fruits haven’t always delivered sustainable outcomes.
19 May 2025
Alejandro García-Huidobro (Prize) calls for greater unity and a new governance model for Chile’s cherry sector. Emphasis on shared strategy, quality, alternative markets and sustainable growth for 2025/26. Today’s decisions will shape export success.
07 Jul 2026
A Moldova study shows that pruning Kordia sweet cherry on MaxMa 14 after harvest or in early autumn improves canopy balance, flower bud density, fruiting spurs and yield, reaching average production of 19.8 kg per tree and giving growers guidance for modern orchards
07 Jul 2026
In Michigan, Drosophila suzukii, or Spotted Wing Drosophila, threatens ripening cherries and berries. This MSU guide outlines monitoring, effective insecticide programs, thorough coverage and timely harvest practices to prevent fruit infestation in cherry orchards.
