SPRAYING SET FOR DOWNEY-AREA CITRUS TREES INFESTED WITH ASIAN PSYLLID
By The Downey Patriot
Citrus trees in the Downey area will be sprayed with pesticide this month in an attempt to eliminate the Asian citrus psyllid—an aphid-like insect about one-eighth-inch long—that has been discovered on local trees.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) will oversee the spraying, setting traps for the pests and notifying residents in person and/or in writing at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled treatment.
The Asian citrus psyllid is an exotic insect that transmits a disease known as HLB to citrus trees. Citrus trees infected with HLB will die within a year or two.
Signs of Asian citrus psyllid infestation include:
•Asian citrus psyllids infesting a leaf
•Asian citrus psyllid eggs tucked inside new citrus growth
•Burned tips of leaves
•Twisting of new leaves
Anyone suspecting infestation of their citrus trees is urged to call (800) 491-1899.
