- Author: Jeannette E. Warnert
The Bakersfield Californian today ran a story raising concerns about the recent introduction into California of the Asian citrus psyllid, a pest which can transmit the devastating citrus greening disease. In Kern County, citrus was the agricultural commodity with the third highest value in 2007, more than $450 million, according to the county's crop report. Citrus ranked fifth in 2006.
"This could cause catastrophic losses,” the paper quoted Craig Kallsen, UC Cooperative Extension citrus farm advisor for Kern County. “The insect isn’t in...
- Author: Jeannette E. Warnert
The Asian citrus psyllid's border crossing into San Diego County earlier this month is prompting an emotional reaction from growers. Called the "mother of all killer bugs" by Fresh Plaza, the psyllid is most feared for its ability to spread citrus greening disease.
Farmers' comments in a story that appeared in North (San Diego) County Times reflect their dismay.
- "Honestly, I don't even want to know I have the pest. Because once I know I have the pest, it's all over. I might as well throw in the towel. Honestly, I don't see any...
- Author: Jeannette E. Warnert
Coachella Valley citrus growers and industry researchers met yesterday to discuss an attack against the Asian citrus psyllid, an insect lethal to citrus crops that has recently been found in California, according to a story in today's Desert Sun.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture announced late last week that a single Asian citrus psyllid was detected in San Diego County, which set in motion a collaborative effort that includes UC Cooperative Extension to protect the state's citrus industry.
Asian citrus psyllid...
- Author: Jeannette E. Warnert
The New York Times ran a rather technical article this week about a disease that is sending shivers down the spines of citrus growers in Florida and California - citrus greening. The disease is endemic in Florida. California growers are nervously watching the border with Mexico, where a pest that transmits citrus greening has already been found. That development was covered by the Los Angeles Times in July, as mentioned in this blog...
- Author: Jeannette E. Warnert
The Los Angeles Times yesterday ran a story about an exotic pest that is knocking on Southern California's door -- the Asian citrus psyllid. The pest was found in Tijuana backyard trees just blocks from the border. California citrus growers fear the psyllid's ability to spread citrus greening disease from tree to tree. Citrus greening causes trees to produce small, discolored and bitter fruit; and then eventually, the tree dies. There is no known cure.
Stephanie Klunk of the UC IPM program distributed a release on the threat two weeks ago. Both articles included comment from UC...
