Most common cause
Black weevils prefer to feed on the leaves of evergreen plants such as the common loquat. Their traces of feeding can be seen on the leaf edge, which has been eaten off in the shape of a crescent. Since the black vine weevil is nocturnal, it is difficult to spot it during the day. Its search for leaf tissue begins in May and continues into July. Although the beetle hardly finds suitable living conditions in the heavy and mixed garden soil, it causes just as much damage to the medlars in the open air as to those planted in pots Bushes.
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The black weevil finds optimal conditions here:
- in very light and humus rich soils
- in substrate rich in peat and compost
- in bog beds, Window boxes(€ 109.00 at Amazon *) and buckets
Control of pests
Since the beetles seek shelter during the day, weevil traps are an effective control method. The traps consist of a grooved wooden board into which a gel with nematodes is injected. The SC nematodes of the species Steinernema carpocapsae infect the beetles and reduce their number by 80 to 100 percent in two weeks.
Black vine weevils lay eggs on the ground all summer. Give the plants irrigation water that has been enriched with nematodes. SK nematodes of the Steinernema kraussei species are suitable for this, as they grow at temperatures between eight and twelve degrees Celsius are active, or HM nematodes of the genus Heterorhabditis, the temperatures of over twelve degrees Celsius require. The nematodes infect the beetle's larvae.
Search your plants at dusk and collect the beetles from the plant and the ground. In case of danger, the vine weevils fall to the ground and pretend to be dead.
Preventive measures
Many purchased plants can be infested with the pest. When buying, look out for possible traces of eating on leaves and roots. If you buy your plants from specialist suppliers, you have a better chance of pest-free plants. Environmentally friendly plant strengtheners increase the resilience of the medlars. Brews with tansy, nettle or garlic broth are ideal. Regular watering with the brew puts the beetles at ease and supports your plants.
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