Snout Olive Weevil
Snout Olive Weevil
The snout olive weevil (Rhynchites cribripennis) is a pest that attacks olives, causing significant yield losses. Adult weevils bore small holes in the olives to lay eggs. The larvae that hatch feed inside the fruit, leading to its decay and premature dropping before harvest. In addition to direct damage to the fruit, the damage can open the door to secondary infections and mold.
Pest Description:
- The weevil is copper-colored, about 5 mm long and 3 mm wide.
- The front part of the body extends into a brown snout about 2 mm long.
- Eggs are pale yellow.
- The larva is pale yellow, apodal, with a darker head, developing and feeding inside the stone of the fruit.
- The pupa overwinters in the soil.
Using Neem Oil Against Snout Olive Weevil
Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can help control the snout olive weevil. Its main active ingredient, azadirachtin, acts as a repellent, antifeedant, and insect growth regulator, meaning it can prevent the pest from laying eggs and disrupt larval feeding.
Recommendations for Using Neem Products
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Neem Oil Spraying: Regularly spray olive trees with neem oil during the growing season. Use a 2-3% solution (20-30 ml of neem oil per 1 liter of water). Spraying should begin before the weevil starts laying eggs, usually in early spring.
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Neem Cake Application: As additional protection, you can apply neem cake around the roots of olive trees. It helps reduce pest populations in the soil and improves soil health.
Benefits of Neem Products
- Natural Protection: Neem oil is environmentally friendly, safe for beneficial organisms, and non-harmful to the environment.
- Broad Action: Besides weevils, neem oil also works on other pests, reducing the need for other chemical agents.
- Maintaining Soil Health: Neem cake enhances soil fertility, contributing to better growth and development of olive trees.
Conclusion
Using neem oil and neem cake is an effective, natural way to control the snout olive weevil, ensuring healthier and more productive olive trees.