Branch and twig borer—Melalqus confertus
The adult borer is a dark brown beetle, cylindrical in shape. The immature stage (grub) is white, fleshy,
enlarged just below the tiny head, and appears legless. It is typically curled up in a C shape.
Life cycle
Damage
New shoots (8 - 10 inches long) wilt or break off during windy weather. Close inspection reveals a hole
or gnawed area in the crotch formed by shoot and spur. Larvae burrow into wood at dead or dying parts
of vines, plugging the tunnel behind them with sawdustlike frass and chewed wood.
Solutions
Prune out dying and dead parts of vine and remove or burn all prunings before March, as these are breeding
sites for beetles. Keep area free of prunings and wood cut from fruit and nut trees and ornamentals.
Pesticides should not be necessary. |
Branch and twig borer adult |
Damage
to cordon |
Twisting
of cane |
|
