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OMAFRA: Scouting for MALB and earwigs in vineyards at harvest

Grape growers are advised to keep an eye out for multi-coloured Asian lady beetle (MALB), according to Wendy McFadden-Smith, a horticulture IPM specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). The abundance of aphids in vineyards early in the season is attracting their insect predators, and while MALB and earwigs feeding on aphids would usually be beneficial pest management, the chemicals these two insects secrete to deter predators or when crushed have a detrimental effect on grapes and wine.

McFadden-Smith presents strategies for monitoring and management, including a caution on pesticide use depending on how close to harvest the application would be. |READ MORE