Are guava moths wreaking havoc on your beloved feijoa trees? Don't worry; you're not alone. Many Kiwi gardeners face the same issue. But fear not! With a little knowledge and the right approach, you can protect your feijoas and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
Identifying Guava Moths
Guava moths are small, speckled insects with a wingspan of approximately 15mm. Their larvae are pink and can grow up to 8mm long. These pesky creatures can devastate a feijoa crop if left unchecked.
Combatting the Guava Moth Menace
If your feijoa trees are under attack, there are steps you can take to fight back:
Pruning and Maintenance: Proper pruning and maintenance are essential for healthy feijoa trees. Check out this guide from Edible Backyard on how to prune feijoas for expert tips.
Soil Enrichment: Boost your feijoa tree's health and resilience by applying Sea-Hume Granules throughout the year. This will help strengthen the tree and improve fruit quality.
Natural Pest Control: Use a combination of neem oil and cheap oil applied to tree wraps to deter guava moths. Check out this article from OurAuckland for more information on keeping guava moths at bay.
Trapz for Trapping: Solar Trapz are an effective way to trap guava moths and reduce their population. Install them at blossom burst to catch the moths before they can lay eggs.
Planting and Care Tips
For those just starting their feijoa journey, here are some essential tips:
Plant feijoas from mid-autumn to early spring for best results.
Feijoa trees should be spaced a meter apart when planted as a hedge, and four to five meters apart when planted individually.
Indulge in the Juicy Rewards
And finally, on a lighter note, you might wonder: can you eat too many feijoas? While feijoas are incredibly delicious and nutritious, it's essential to enjoy them in moderation. Feijoas contain a considerable amount of vitamin B6, and consuming too much can lead to unwanted side effects. According to Feijoa Addiction, the upper limit for adults over 18 is 100 milligrams of vitamin B6 per day. So, enjoy your feijoas, but remember, moderation is key.
Free Naturally Neem Product Samples
If you or your friends live close to Hillcrest, Auckland, I have some free Naturally Neem product samples to give away! Just text me at 0212277000.