Watch out for mealybugs in sugar apple
Mealybugs are a significant pest in sugar apple plantations. They damage the plant by sucking sap from the leaves, tender shoots, flowers, and fruit. If the infestation is severe, the affected areas will wilt and eventually become damaged. Additionally, mealybugs excrete honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold, reducing the quality of the sugar apple. Mealybugs move from the ground up the tree, from the flowering stage to the ripening fruit, with ants acting as carriers, spreading the pests throughout the tree, which can worsen the infestation.
Prevention and control methods
1. If a minor mealybug infestation is found, prune and remove the damaged parts immediately.
2. Mechanical removal: For light infestations on fruit, you can use a brush or spray water to dislodge the mealybugs, or use water mixed with White Oil at a rate of 20 milliliters per 20 liters of water to effectively control them.
3. Chemical control: Use imidacloprid 70% WG at a rate of 4 grams per 20 liters of water, or carbosulfan 20% EC at a rate of 50 grams per 20 liters of water. Choose one of these chemicals and spray twice, 7 days apart.
*Please monitor and follow these recommendations to prevent damage from mealybug infestations in sugar apple.