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Subject: Re: cherry fruit fly
From: orangerose@aol.com (Orangerose)
Organization: AOL http://www.aol.com
Date: Tue, 16 May 00 21:00:47
Message-ID: <MOD$000516.14958@rec.gardens.ecosystems>
References: <MOD$000515.3424@rec.gardens.ecosystems>



It seems that these kinds of pests are pretty tough to deal with. Lures
(sticky red balls) can be hung before fruit ripens to attract newly hatched
adults. Most of the solutions seem to be prevenative. The larvae pupate in
the soil, so that seems to be the main way to get them. You could try
nematodes on the soil--that would probably reduce the adult population
somewhat. Also, Rodale's suggests underplanting with clover to increase
predator populations. My suspicion is that the predators eat the larvae that
fall from the already damaged fruit (on the way to the soil for pupation.)
That would help with next year's population. I find no mention of Bt for pupae
either, though that might be an option as well.
Cornell has a good site with lots of info, but no organic controls.
http://www.nysaes.cornell.edu/ipmnet/ny/fruits/FruitFS/cherryfruitfly.html

But it always helps to thoroughly understand a pest before you treat...
Good luck.

Kelly