Increased fruit fly spring activity

Fruit fly activity is on the rise as we hit the spring peak and start to experience population increases which will continue to build over summer. Fruit fly currently active across the Goulburn Murray Valley are adult flies that were able to survive the winter by over wintering. The next generation of flies will emerge from eggs laid by these overwintering flies. Queensland fruit fly numbers will continue to steadily increase over the summer months until April, with a small decline typically experienced during January when very hot, dry weather occurs. Home gardeners, property owners and growers should be fruit fly ready as we enter the peak growing season.

Free fruit tree removal program open

The removal of unmanaged fruit fly habitat eliminates potential breeding grounds and is an effective control option to help stop the spread of fruit fly. If you have a fruit tree you no longer want or can’t manage why not have it removed free of charge through the free Fruit Tree Removal Program. By removing unwanted fruit trees and host plants, it is harder for fruit fly to find suitable habitat to lay eggs and breed. Pick up an application form from participating council’s customer service centre or visit www.fruitflycontrol.com.au

Extra vigilance required to stop the spread

A number of locations have been identified as sites of concern through the Goulburn Murray Valley regional trapping grid. If you live in or near these locations, place monitoring traps out and check nearby ripening, ripe or overripe fruit for the presence of fruit fly.

Locations requiring extra vigilance include:

• Kyabram

• Shepparton

• Mooroopna

• Tatura

• Cobram

*It should be noted that some flies trapped in Cobram urban may be previously released sterile fruit fly that have survived winter.

Fruit fly control

Fruit fly management strategies in place in home gardens, urban properties and orchards in spring and early summer will help reduce fruit fly activity through the upcoming season.