Marking of apricots by European red mite (Panonychus ulmi(Koch)) —a control programme

Abstract

Abstract Observations in spring 1976 suggested that feeding by European red mite (Panonychus ulmi (Koch)) on ‘Moorpark’ apricot fruitlets was associated with the development of brown marks on the skin of the fruit. These marks, or feeding scars, detracted from the appearance of the fruit at harvest time. Trials carried out over the next 5 years not only confirmed the association but showed that the most effective treatment was carbophenothion (Trithion) applied at 58 g a.i. per 100 1 at the time of maximum hatch of winter eggs (mid October in Central Otago). Results also suggested that this treatment was beneficial even in the absence of mites. This spring treatment has proved to be more acceptable to growers than the autumn treatment recommended initially.