Guava moth currently active
Guava moth is a widespread and notorious pest which lays its eggs on almost any type of fruit. EG, I have a bountiful plum tree and at least 95% of the plums are devastated by this pest every season. I'm not exaggerating. You'll notice pin holes drilled into your fruit and, on examining the interior of the fruit, you'll find the larvae (grub) has burrowed all-round the stone etc, making the fruit inedible. They'll even have a go at citrus.
One means of limiting this pest is to pick up fallen fruit asap and dump it in a bucket of water. Even unripe fruit. Within hours the grub will emerge. Let it drown! This won't cure the problem of guava moth but it helps limit second generation.
There seems to be no effective spray, even tho' neem oil has been recommended. Difficult with plums as the skin is moisture-resistant so nothing sticks. Except the bl. guava moth!
Please pick up your fallen fruit, which will at least help your neighbours. Don't compost them as the grub can still emerge and pupate. Rather drown them or seal in a plastic bag.
Many thanks, David H.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84.7% Yes
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13.9% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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