Populations of spotted wing drosophila (SWD; Figure 1) are likely to increase in the next few weeks as is the normal progression of this insect populations but also from the recent rain events that tend to promote increases in populations. Susceptible crops should be protected with a cover spray once they turn color and recommendations can be found in the Midwest Spray Guide.  If you find larvae in your fruit, cultural control practices that include removal of infested and overripe fruit on the plant and off the ground and destroying the compromised fruit, as well as shortening harvest schedule to every 2 days should be implemented. Refrigerating fruit will slow down the development of immature stages and should be implemented and could be recommended to consumers. For organic production, please see this previous article and this comprehensive organic management publication.

Happy growing season!

This article was posted in Insects and tagged Christelle Guédot, insects, Spotted Wing Drosophila.