There have been two earlier posting on this blog about the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP)and the potential crippling impact for citrus in California caused by the Huanglongbing vector (aka citrus greening disease) this insect carries. Please read the Introduction to the Asian Citrus Psyllid and Asian Citrus Psyllid: Lessons from Florida for additional information about this pest.
We are entering the time of year in which the ACP becomes most active. Make sure to check your trees regularly for signs of this insect. The Introduction to the Asian Citrus Psyllid post provides detailed photos and descriptions of how to determine if this species is on your trees. If you see this psyllid, call the California Department of Food and Agriculture at 1-800-491-1899 right away.
I recently asked Ventura County UCCE Farm Advisor Ben Faber what I should share about the ACP. He said to remind people how important it is to make sure to declare plant items when crossing the border. It is people who are spreading this around.
Recently UC Agriculture and Natural Resources’ News and Information group released a video demonstrating for the general public how to detect Asian Citrus psyllids on their garden trees. The video is available at:
http://news.ucanr.org/newsstorymain.cfm?story=1233
In addition, our office has a supply of bookmarks that contain photos and instructions for identifying both ACP and trees struck by Huanglongbing. They are available in both English and Spanish. Please contact our office if you would like some.
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ACP infestation
ACP feeding damage
Distorted leaves from ACP