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.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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81.9% Yes
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15.3% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below
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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.