Spotted Wing Drosophila Surge Has Florida Blueberry Growers On Watch
March 18, 2024 
Earlier-than-normal presence of spotted wing drosophila is being reported by Florida blueberry growers. Photo by Martin Cooper
According to an industry alert sent out by the Florida Blueberry Growers Association, multiple producers around the central part of the state are reporting spotted wing drosophila in their fields. Any presence of the tiny, invasive pest that feeds on soft fruit is odd for this time of year as it’s earlier than normal.
Growers are encouraged to scout for the pest and implement any control measures if necessary.
Dr. Oscar E. Liburd, UF/IFAS Professor of fruit and vegetable entomology, knows much about spotted wing drosophila. He provides the following counsel: “What we have been using for a long time to monitor for SWD is the Scentry trap with Scentry lure, which still catches the most flies. There is a new trap, which is a red sticky trap with a Trece lure. This trap catches earlier, but not as many, flies as the Scentry trap. Any one of the organophosphates, including Malathion, Diazinon, etc. and synthetic pyrethriods, such as Mustang Maxx, Danitol, etc. can provide effective control. If you are looking for a reduced-risk pesticide, a good option would be Exirel.”
For more on spotted wing drosophila in Florida, refer to the UF/IFAS “Florida Blueberry Integrated Pest Management Guide.”
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