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Steps to be followed
- Inspect the soil around your trees on a daily basis.
- Collect all damaged fruit and destroy it by burying them deeply or burning them.
- Avoid composting these fruits so as not to spread the larvae.
This manual method is particularly effective when combined with other techniques.
3. 3. Preventive cultural techniques
In addition to direct treatment, certain cropping practices may help to limit the impact of carpocaposis:
3.1 Tree size and ventilation
A good size improves ventilation and light in the tree crown, creating a less insect-friendly environment. It also facilitates access to fruit for easier monitoring.
3.2 Palage and Maintenance of the Ground
A thick mulch around the trunks prevents the larvae from rising to the trees after falling to the ground. Use organic materials such as straw or ground bark.
3.3 Rotation of Cultures
If possible, alternate plantations of fruit trees with other crops to break the life cycle of the carpocapse.
4. Innovative organic solutions
4.1. Pathogenic bacteria
Bacteria like Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can be used to fight caterpillars. When applied as a spray, this bacterium is specifically toxic to lepidopteran insects without affecting other organisms.
4.2 Plant oils
Some vegetable oils, such as neem oil, have natural insecticide properties. They form a protective barrier on the fruit and disrupt the development of larvae.
5. Importance of Regular Surveillance
The fight against carpocaps requires constant vigilance. Here are some tips for effectively monitoring your trees:
- Visual observation: Inspect fruit regularly for characteristic holes.
- Tracking schedule: Write down the key flight periods of the butterflies to intervene at the right time.
- Collaboration with neighbors: Coordinate your efforts with neighboring homeowners to prevent insects from migrating from one orchard to another.
6. Benefits of Natural Methods
6.1 Environmental compliance
Natural solutions do not pollute water or soil, unlike chemical pesticides. They also preserve beneficial auxiliaries such as bees and ladybugs.
6.2 Economy
Although some equipment, such as pheromone traps, may require an initial investment, it is generally more cost-effective in the long run than expensive chemicals.
6.3 Plant health
Natural methods enhance the overall health of your trees by avoiding stress related to aggressive treatments.
7. Challenges and limits
Despite their effectiveness, natural methods have certain limitations:
- Time and effort required: Monitoring and interventions must be regular to achieve optimal results.
- Progressive results: Unlike chemical pesticides, natural solutions take time to show their effects.
