Look out for the peach twig borer pest in Mesa County
This month, we are highlighting the peach twig borer (Anarsia lineatella), a common pest in western Colorado that has the potential to pose a significant threat to the peach industry in Mesa County. This species primarily targets peach trees, but also affects other stone fruits, including nectarines, plums, cherries, and apricots.
In the spring, larvae feed on newly emerging leaves, shoots, and blossoms. There are many control and monitoring options available, including traps, mating disruption, and insecticides. Apply insecticides during early larval feeding stages and egg hatch periods. Lower toxicity options, such as microbial products and insect growth regulators, can be effective when timed correctly.
Evidence of the pest’s presence:
- Wilting young shoots on peach trees.
- Fruit with a small entry hole near the stem end, especially on peaches.
- Larvae with alternating dark brown and white bands around the abdomen.
- Gummy sap and “sawdust” mixture at the base of the tree.
If you think a fruit tree on your property may be infested by peach twig borers, check out the Backyard Orchard: Stone Fruits Factsheet from the Colorado State University Tri-River Area Extension. Be sure to time spraying when bees and pollinators are not likely to collect pollen and nectar from flowers.
