Most Common Kiwi Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Kiwi plants are known for their delicious fruits and ornamental value. However, like any other plant, kiwi plants are susceptible to pests. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and fruits of the kiwi plant if not properly identified and treated. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common kiwi plant pests, how to identify them, and the treatment options available.

1. Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of kiwi plants. They are usually found in clusters on the undersides of leaves or near the growing tips of the plant. Aphids can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves, and transmit viral diseases.

To identify aphids, look for small green or black insects with pear-shaped bodies. They can be easily spotted by their rapid movement when disturbed.

To treat aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. These products suffocate and kill aphids on contact. Regularly spraying the affected areas with water can also help reduce their numbers.

2. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of kiwi plants. They are not insects but can cause significant damage to the leaves by sucking out chlorophyll. Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions.

To identify spider mites, look for tiny dots on the leaves that appear yellow or bronze. These dots are actually their excrement, known as “spider mite stippling.” You may also notice fine webbing on the affected leaves.

To treat spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. These products kill spider mites on contact and disrupt their life cycle. Increasing humidity around the plants by misting them regularly can also help control spider mite infestations.

3. Scale Insects

Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of kiwi plants. They have a protective waxy covering that makes them difficult to remove. Scale insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and even death of the plant if left untreated.

To identify scale insects, look for small bumps or shells on the stems and leaves of the kiwi plant. They can range in color from white to brown or black, depending on the species.

To treat scale insects, you can scrape them off using a soft brush or cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will remove their protective covering and expose them to the alcohol, which will kill them. In severe infestations, you may need to use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control scale insects effectively.

4. Thrips

Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of kiwi plants. They cause damage by sucking out sap and leaving behind silver or brown streaks on the leaves. Thrips can also transmit viral diseases to kiwi plants.

To identify thrips, look for tiny elongated insects with fringed wings. They are usually light brown or black in color and can be seen crawling or flying around the affected plant.

To treat thrips, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. These products will kill thrips on contact. Regularly removing weeds and debris from around the kiwi plants can also help reduce thrip populations.

5. Caterpillars

Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of kiwi plants. They can cause significant damage by consuming large portions of leaves and even defoliating entire plants if left unchecked.

To identify caterpillars, look for chewed leaves and the presence of droppings (frass) on the ground or around the plant. You may also notice the caterpillars themselves, which come in various colors and sizes depending on the species.

To treat caterpillars, you can manually pick them off the affected plant and dispose of them. If the infestation is severe, you can use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars. This product is safe for humans and other beneficial insects.

Conclusion

Identifying and treating kiwi plant pests is essential to ensure the health and productivity of your plants. Regular inspection and monitoring of your kiwi plants can help detect pest infestations early. By using appropriate treatment methods, you can effectively control these common kiwi plant pests and enjoy a thriving kiwi garden. Remember to always follow the instructions on the product labels and consider using organic or environmentally friendly options whenever possible.