How to Get Rid of Borers on Fig Plant

Fig plants are beautiful and delicious, but they are also susceptible to pests like borers. Borers are insects that bore into the wood of a plant, causing significant damage and even death. If you have noticed holes in your fig tree or wilting branches, it may be a sign of borers. Here are some tips on how to get rid of borers on your fig plant.

Identify the Type of Borers

There are different types of borers that can attack your fig plant, and it is essential to identify the specific type before applying any treatment. The most common borers that attack fig trees include the peach tree borer, the dogwood borer, and the lesser peach tree borer.

The peach tree borer is reddish-brown with dark wings, while the dogwood borer is a yellowish-brown moth with dark markings. The lesser peach tree borer is a small moth with white and gray wings. The larvae of these borers usually tunnel into the bark or wood of the fig tree.

Inspect Your Fig Tree Regularly

Regular inspection of your fig tree can help you detect any signs of borers before they cause significant damage. Check for holes in the bark, wilting branches, sawdust-like material around the base of the tree, or frass (insect excrement) on the foliage or soil.

It is advisable to inspect your fig tree at least once a month during the growing season when borers are most active. You can use a sharp knife or pruner to cut into the bark and check for any burrows or tunnels.

Use Insecticides

Insecticides can be an effective way to control borers on your fig plant. There are different types of insecticides available, including sprays, dusts, and systemic insecticides.

Spray insecticides can be sprayed directly on the foliage or bark of the fig tree to kill the borers. Dust insecticides are applied to the soil around the base of the tree, and the active ingredient is absorbed by the roots and transported to the foliage, killing any borers that feed on it.

Systemic insecticides are applied to the soil or trunk of the fig tree and are absorbed by the roots or bark. The active ingredient is then transported throughout the plant, killing any borers that feed on it.

It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using insecticides, as some can be harmful to humans or pets. Wear protective clothing and gloves when applying insecticides and avoid spraying during windy conditions.

Prune Infested Branches

If you notice any infested branches on your fig plant, it is advisable to prune them immediately to prevent further damage. Cut at least 6 inches below the infested area, making sure to sterilize your pruning tools between cuts to prevent spreading disease.

Implement Preventative Measures

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to borers on your fig plant. Here are some preventive measures you can implement:

• Keep your fig tree healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients.
• Avoid stressing your fig tree with over-pruning or excessive fertilization.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your fig tree to retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
• Use sticky traps or pheromone traps around your fig tree to attract and trap adult borers before they lay eggs.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of a borer infestation on your fig plant.

FAQ

How do I know if my fig tree has borers?

You can look for holes in the bark, wilting branches, sawdust-like material around the base of the tree, or frass (insect excrement) on the foliage or soil. Regular inspection of your fig tree can help you detect any signs of borers before they cause significant damage.

What insecticides are best for controlling borers on fig trees?

There are different types of insecticides available, including sprays, dusts, and systemic insecticides. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using insecticides, as some can be harmful to humans or pets.

Can borers kill my fig tree?

Yes, borers can cause significant damage and even death to a fig tree if left untreated. Regular inspection and treatment can help prevent this from happening.

How can I prevent borers on my fig tree?

You can keep your fig tree healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients, avoiding stressing it with over-pruning or excessive fertilization, applying a layer of mulch around the base of your fig tree, and using sticky traps or pheromone traps to attract and trap adult borers before they lay eggs.