Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority says there are some easy steps for backyard fruit growers to follow to reduce damage by Queensland fruit fly this summer.
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“If you are like me and want to grow your own summer fruit, fruit fly is another pest that we must manage as it is important that all backyard fruit growers are aware of the impact this may have on the horticultural industries,” Goulburn Broken CMA regional agriculture Landcare facilitator Kerstie Lee said.
“Agriculture Victoria has estimated that fruit flies cost fruit producers at least $300 million a year across Australia,” she said.
“With viticulture and horticulture industries present and productive throughout the Goulburn Broken region, it is vitally important we work together to address and manage the risk of fruit fly infestation, especially in our own gardens.”
Queensland fruit flies burrow into soil to survive cold winters and emerge when the temperature increases, and the females then lay their eggs in fruit.
Baiting females early in the season reduces the opportunity for them to lay eggs, increasing the chance of a fruit fly-free crop of fruit in your garden.
Further baiting can be done later in the season, but the eggs may already be laid.
For more information on the Queensland fruit fly life cycle and treatment, visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/qff or if you would like a workshop in your local area, email Kerstie Lee at kerstiel@gbcma.vic.gov.au
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