Ambrosia beetle toothpicks
UGA Extension Pecan Entomologist Dr. Will Hudson confirmed the first ambrosia beetle flight reported yesterday in southern Grady County. ABB initial flight usually occurs when temperatures go over 70 degrees. A few days ago, Dr. Hudson said they will likely fly this week. Growers with young pecan trees, especially under 5 years, need to check their traps. Remember, we are looking for the “toothpicks” on the wood. This is the frass from the beetles as they bore into the tree.
Once we see AAB attacking the traps, we need to spray. Trunks of young trees should be sprayed with a pyrethroid. Barrier sprays of Lorsban will not work for AAB. The beetles are particularly attracted to stressed trees (although they will attack non-stressed trees.) Pay close attention to trees planted in poorly drained soil. Once a flight is observed with the traps, it is advisable to spray each week in problem areas until the trees have leafed out.
Dr. Hudson speaks at 2016 Thomas County Pecan Update in Thomasville
Thomas County Ag 