Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template

Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template Catfacing

Problem
Sunken, corky areas mar the fruit surface. Blossoms may drop without setting fruit. Many of the young fruits drop prematurely. Some of the developing leaves and twigs are deformed. Brown, green, or rust-colored bugs ¼ to ½ inch long may be seen feeding on the buds and fruit.

Analysis
The sunken, corky "catface" disfigurations that appear on the fruit are usually caused by the tarnished plant bug (Lygus lineolaris) and various species of stinkbugs. The insects hibernate in vetch or other broadleafed weeds during the winter. When the trees start to bloom in the spring, these bugs feed on the young buds, blooms, and fruits, causing bud and fruit drop, twig malformation, and catfacing. Most of the damage occurs early in the season, although the bugs may occasionally feed on the fruits up until harvest. Hail or cold weather may also damage the tender blooms and fruit surfaces, causing catface injuries.

Solution
To control plant bugs, spray with an insecticide containing malathion when the buds turn pink. Repeat the spray when the petals have dropped from most of the blossoms and whenever bugs are seen in the trees. Next fall, clean up weeds and plant debris to eliminate hibernating locations for the overwintering bugs.

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