How to prevent guava moth in feijoa tree?

[LindaO]

how can i prevent guava moth in my feijoa tree. Loads of fruit, but they are all brown inside.

The tree is in North Sydney and I’m prevented from topping it so I could net it.  Is there a suitable trap available here as there is in NZ?

it’s distressing to sweep up so much fruit and bin it when they are currently $29 in the fruit shop! 

[EricL]

Hello @LindaO 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about protecting the fruit of your feijoa tree. 

I suggest having a look at these discussions - Alternative to bird netting! by @DIYgals and How to stop bugs eating my Guava fruit? by @AlejoGC. Both discussions have suggested a form of fruit protection using a fine mesh fruit bag or a resealable sandwich bag. These have been tried and tested and does not require any chemical spray to protect the fruit. This I think would be the be the best way to deter guava moths from attacking your feijoa tree and its fruits.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[LindaO]

Those suggestions are not helpful as my tree is too high. Council will not let me top it.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @LindaO,

I've contacted the supplier of the The Buzz Guava Moth Trap , and unfortunately, we are unable to order them in Australia. I'll certainly pass this on to our buyer to look into and potentially add to our range.

I've also reached out to our other suppliers to see whether there is a non-toxic spray that can be used on edible fruit crops. Due to the moth's lifecycle, there does not appear to be any systemic insecticide that will kill the caterpillars before they damage the fruit.

I understand it wouldn't help protect all your fruit due to the height of the tree, but next season, as the lower-hanging fruit are starting to develop, covering them with Cyclone 25 x 43cm Backyard Farmer Netting Sleeves would help prevent the moths from laying their eggs in them. At least then you might get some fruit to enjoy.

Mitchell