Everyone feels happy if a guava tree is planted in the garden of the house and it bears abundant fruits. But sometimes the guava appears perfect from outside and when cut, insects are found inside it. In such a situation, the fruit becomes unfit for eating and the hard work also becomes useless. Some easy measures can be adopted to save guava from this problem.
Reason for insects in guava
According to gardening expert Rajkumar, one of the main reasons for insects in guava is fruit fly. This insect lays eggs in the fruit. Later, small caterpillars emerge from these eggs, which go inside the fruit and cause damage to it. This can affect both the quality and yield of guava.
clean up under the tree
To protect guava from insects, it is very important to maintain cleanliness around the tree. Do not leave fruits that have fallen from trees lying on the ground. Pick them up every day and destroy them or bury them in the soil. This reduces the chances of fruit fly flourishing.
put net covers on fruits
When guavas start bearing fruit, a net bag or fruit cover can be applied on them. Due to this, the fruit fly is not able to reach the fruit directly and the risk of laying eggs in it is reduced. This method is quite easy for one or two trees in the home garden.
use fruit fly trap
Traps can also be set up to control fruit flies. Methyl eugenol based traps can be used with the advice of agricultural experts. It particularly helps in attracting male fruit flies and can be useful in controlling insect populations.
spray neem oil
To protect against fruit fly, neem extract or neem oil can also be sprayed on the guava tree. However, one should avoid spraying it on the plant during strong sunlight. Follow the product instructions or expert advice for the correct dosage and method of use.
Hot water treatment after plucking
The method of treating fruits with hot water after harvesting can also be adopted. According to the expert, keeping guava in water with a temperature of about 48 degrees Celsius for about 10 minutes can help in controlling some eggs and insects present in the fruit. However, it is important to keep the temperature correct, because too hot water can damage the fruit.
Keep pruning and cleaning the tree
Keep pruning the guava tree from time to time. This ensures better circulation of air and sunlight inside the tree. Also, do not allow rotten or fallen fruits to accumulate in the garden.
By adopting these easy measures, guava trees can be protected to a great extent from damage caused by fruit flies and other insects. Regular cleaning, fruit protection and timely care can help in getting healthy and better guava yields.