Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Phylloxera
This infamous pest of grapevines has caused havoc in vineyards for many years. When
it was unintentionally imported into France in the 18th century, it wiped out entire vine-
yards. Phylloxera is a louse, a small winged or wingless, oval insect that may be bright
yellow, orange, brown, or green, depending on the stage of its life cycle. Nymphs feed on
leaves, forming galls. Root-feeding phylloxera also forms galls, eventually killing the vine.
CONTROL
Use resistant rootstocks for control. Do not plant in soil that has previously been infected
with phylloxera. Limit plant stress by building healthy soil and giving vines adequate irrig-
ation and fertilization.
Thrips
These tiny insects have distinctive feathery wings. They feed on emerging shoots,
leaves, and fruits. Stunted shoots with bronzing in early season indicate a damaging popu-
lation of thrips.
