Guava plants in Ceará are beginning improve after a serious psyllid fly infestation. Despite having abundant water from irrigation, lack of rain has left plants vulnerable late last year. The insect multiplied rapidly and destroyed the young leaves, which prevented the growth of the fruits.
To combat the plague, a combination of chemical and organic products were sprayed on plants. The slight rainfall early January also contributed to insect control.
The production has now returned to normal, but the producers know they will have to learn to live with the problem. According to the technicians, the psyllid is one of the most common pests on guava.
With the presence of the pest, farmers were only able to produce 2.5 tons of guava. Now, with controlled infestation, it is expected that production numbers will increase.
Source: Globo