ACP Map Slowly Being Developed

The recent detection of additional Asian Citrus Psyllids in Tulare County are a sobering reminder that there may indeed be a small infestation in the Valley.

According to Beth Grafton-Cardwell, UC Extension Specialist in Citrus, “It’s adding to general map of where we have a possible infestation. “We hope growers are vigilant in spraying the required sprays within 800 meters in and around areas where they are found,” she said.

Grafton-Cardwell noted that the industry should probably be spraying beyond the 800-meter treatment zone around each fine to insure better control. “We have to work hard to keep ACP populations down for as long as possible in the San Joaquin Valley,” she said.

ACP is the known vector of Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, is a bacterial plant disease that, while not harmful to humans or animals – is fatal for citrus trees. The disease destroys the production, appearance and economic value of citrus trees. Diseased trees produce bitter, hard, misshapen fruit and die within a few years of being infected. HLB is considered to be one of the most serious plant diseases in the world and currently there is no cure.