According to Fundecitrus, the arrival of budding in orange groves marks a critical period for Brazilian citrus growers. The budding process intensifies with the onset of rain, requiring more rigorous control of the psyllid that feeds on buds and transmits the bacteria that causes citrus greening.
The budding period, which runs from July to October in Brazil, accounts for between 50% and 80% of annual budding, depending on the region.
There reportedly was a 55% increase in the amount of budding in the second half of July compared to the first half of July. This stage of plant development is especially delicate, as new buds are highly vulnerable to psyllid attacks.
Fundecitrus researcher Juan Camilo Cifuentes Arenas noted the importance of intensifying phytosanitary measures, especially spraying, until leaves are more developed and less susceptible.
“These sprouts are the most favorable for the psyllid to feed and, especially, to transfer the greening bacteria,” Arenas said. “Therefore, more than 50% of insect captures occur during this period. The larger the sprout, the more food available and the greater the insect’s incidence.”
Psyllid captures in traps increased by 10% in the second half of July, compared to the previous two weeks.
Arenas highlighted the different behavior of greening-infected plants compared to non-infected plants. “Because of greening, they tend to sprout in much greater numbers and up to two months earlier than healthy plants, which increases the chances of infection and disease spread,” Arenas explained. “Therefore, this situation requires constant vigilance from producers and more rigorous management strategies.”
Fundecitrus is an association maintained by citrus growers and juice manufacturers from São Paulo. The association aims to foster the sustainable development of the Brazilian citrus industry. Its mission includes developing research, disseminating knowledge and transferring technology to combat citrus diseases like HLB.
Source: Fundecitrus
Share this Post