Based on the CIMIS weather station data, we have enough degree days for the second generation of California red scale. Crawlers have started emerging.
Degree days as of June 27, 2024
| Counties | DD as of June 27 | Next event | What can you do |
| Kern | 1641 | Third gen. flight | Treat in 1-2 weeks if necessary |
| Tulare | 1733 | Third gen. flight | Treat in 1-2 weeks if necessary |
| Fresno | 1551 | Third gen. flight | Treat in 1-2 weeks if necessary |
| Madera | 1406 | Second gen. crawler emergence | Treat in 2-3 weeks if necessary |
BMPs for CRS Management
- Monitor for CRS
- Pheromone cards for monitoring males, weekly or per flight.
- Leaf/twig sampling – sample the edge, interior or top of the tree. Determine if the scale is alive or dead by rubbing your thumb.
- Management choices for CRS – Mating disruption (CheckMate CRS), Biological control Aphytis melinus release; insecticides (Check UCIPM guidelines)
- Spray applications are most effective when populations consist of immatures and are synchronized. Spray as crawlers of the first or second generation are emerging. Expect first generation crawlers beginning this week in Kern, Tulare counties and in 1-2 weeks depending on location of your orchard.
- Plan for a thorough coverage (750-1000), drive <1.5 mph, except for Movento – apply at 250 GPA.