Florida’s tropical weather is great, but it’s also great for agricultural pests. The Sunshine State doesn’t get sustained freezing temperatures that knock pests back like northern states do. Florida citrus growers need to have a robust Pest Management Plan to combat pests, and they need to use the knowledge of each pest’s biology to tailor their plans to combat each pest as best as possible. UF/IFAS has shared a wealth of knowledge concerning pest biology and life cycles, along with the knowledge of citrus tree growth, to help time treatments that target pests.
Citrus Pests and Their Biology
The following pests are some of the most problematic for Florida citrus growers:
Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACPs) and Citrus Leafminer: Both ACPs and citrus leafminers are attracted to the new growth of citrus tree flush. Target peak flush periods to keep their populations in check.
Lebbeck Mealybug: Mealybugs are attracted to initial fruit setting and will feed on developing fruit; this can lead to high fruit drop rates. Target mealybugs while fruit is developing in early spring; check your pesticide label for information on use concerning blooms and protecting pollinators. Mealybugs will need to be part of your year-round management plans.
Rust Mites: Rust mite populations start to develop in late spring April and May, so this is the time to target these pests. This will keep their numbers low while they are in the early stage of their development, and it will prevent fruit damage down the line.
Thrips: Like their names suggest, flower thrips are attracted to blooms. Target this pest prior to blooms to protect flowers. Other thrips, like orchid thrips and greenhouse thrips, should be targeted before they can feed on developing fruit and cause rind blemishing. Chili thrips have recently been found in screenhouses and Individual Protective Covers (IPCs); research is ongoing into the best management options.
Root Weevils: Root weevils primarily attack citrus tree roots underground, making it hard to know when the best time is to target them. Their cycle of adults laying eggs on citrus leaves, the larvae dropping and going underground to feed on roots, and the adults emerging again to lay eggs happens year-round, and different species have different peak times. The Florida Citrus Production Guide on Citrus Root Weevils advises using traps to monitor adult emergence, knowing the species, and treating appropriately will aid in controlling this pest.
Snails: Peanut snails or ghost snails have become a problem over the last few years through clogging irrigation and defoliating trees with IPCs. Researchers are still studying the best management practices, but UF/IFAS recommends abamectin used at maximum label rates when snails are active.
