Effective San Jose Scale control in cherry orchards: strategies and timing

13 Aug 2025
2079

As the first intervention of the season against San José Scale (Diaspidiotus perniciosus) in cherry orchards, it is necessary to carry out a preventive treatment, as eradicating this pest from orchards is very difficult and may take several seasons.

One of the many consequences of climate change is the variation in the timing of appearance, migrations, and intensity of attacks of various pests.

In the specific case of San José Scale, it is necessary to act early in the season with the aim of inhibiting the metamorphosis of the juvenile stages and the subsequent emergence of adults, thus achieving timely control and preventing the pest’s proliferation.

Late-winter treatment for Scale control

It is recommended to apply the treatment between July 25 and, at the latest, August 10.

The treatment must be carried out with a high spray volume, as this scale insect shelters in the wood: coverage must therefore be complete and uniform across the entire plant.

The application should be made on dry wood and with a rain-free period of at least 24 hours, since the control is mainly by contact.

Practical considerations

Ensure that the product coverage is excellent and even throughout the tree; the product must have good contact with the wood, where the insect hides.

In orchards with high pest pressure, it is recommended to go over the upper third of the canopy with a lance (pitón), where the highest infestation is generally concentrated.

San José Scale (Diaspidiotus perniciosus

Opening image credit: John A. Davidson, University Maryland

Patricio Morales
AgroAsesoria (Cile)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Abscisic acid and cherry ripening: the Luying 3 case study from China

Tech management

10 Jul 2025

In China, researchers studied the cherry cultivar “Luying 3” and found that applying abscisic acid (ABA) improved fruit ripening by enhancing color uniformity and hormonal balance. The treatment also reduced harvesting steps, improving labor efficiency in the field.

Safeguarding the opportunities offered by early-season cherries: striking a balance between high commercial value and climate risk

Varieties

19 Jun 2026

Early cherries in California offer strong market potential for growers, but success depends on adapted genetics, protected agriculture and climate risk management to secure fruit quality, consistency and profitability in the San Joaquin Valley, even in unstable seasons.

In evidenza

2026 cherry campaign: Vignola, Puglia and Trentino face heat and supply overlap

Markets

17 Jul 2026

Early heat, faster ripening and overlapping harvests across Vignola, Puglia and Trentino shaped the 2026 cherry campaign. Valfrutta Fresco and Agrintesa protected value, quality and grower returns through Vignola IGP cherries, organized supply and strong market demand.

Bacterial canker of sweet cherry: a global threat to cherry production

Crop protection

17 Jul 2026

Bacterial canker of sweet cherry, caused by several Pseudomonas syringae pathogens, threatens orchard yield and longevity. This article examines causes, symptoms, spread, diagnosis, and integrated strategies for sustainable prevention and control in cherry orchards.

Tag Popolari