Olive Lace Bug (OLB) has been a prominent pest in many growing areas in recent times, including areas where it has not been present in significant numbers in the past. All growers should check their groves carefully for signs of OLB and act immediately if they are found.
In particular, growers who use contract processors and find OLB prior to or while harvesting should contact the processor and discuss. Leaf matter with harvested fruit can transport OLB to the processor’s property and spread the pest infestation to their trees, and potentially those of any other growers accessing the property.
The same goes for anyone using contract pruners in coming months: their vehicles – and even clothing – could carry bugs to other properties, so it’s important to check your grove before they arrive.
Information on treatment and control
The AOA has a range of information and resources on OLB available on the OliveBiz and AOA websites, including the resources produced by the olive levy IPDM project. Covering life cycle, preferred environment, identification, and control and treatment options, they provide easily accessible, targeted information to help if you think you may have – or have identified – an outbreak.
Access the Olive Lace Bug Flyer here and the entire suite of IPDM project outputs here.
And if you, or someone you know, are still unsure if OLB is present in your grove, or how to deal with it, please contact the AOA so they can assist. Email Liz at secretariat@australianolives.com.au.
