Lingonberries are small, red berries that grow on low, evergreen shrubs commonly found in northern regions. These delicious and nutritious berries are not only popular among humans but also attract a variety of pests that can damage the plants and reduce berry yields. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common lingonberry plant pests, how to identify them, and the best methods for treatment.
Aphids
Identification: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be green, black, brown, or red in color. They are usually found on the underside of leaves and may leave a sticky residue called honeydew.
Treatment: To control aphids on lingonberry plants, you can spray them with a strong jet of water to dislodge the insects. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be effective in eliminating aphids.
Spider Mites
Identification: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of plants. They are usually found on the underside of leaves and may cause stippling or webbing on the foliage.
Treatment: To get rid of spider mites on lingonberry plants, try spraying them with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. You can also introduce predatory mites or ladybugs to help control the spider mite population.
Slugs and Snails
Identification: Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on a wide range of plants, including lingonberries. They leave behind slime trails and may chew irregular holes in leaves.
Treatment: To protect your lingonberry plants from slugs and snails, you can handpick the pests and dispose of them. Creating physical barriers like copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the plants can also be effective in keeping these pests at bay.
Japanese Beetles
Identification: Japanese beetles are metallic green and bronze beetles with white tufts of hair along their sides. They feed on the leaves of plants, skeletonizing them and causing extensive damage.
Treatment: To control Japanese beetles on lingonberry plants, you can handpick the beetles early in the morning when they are less active. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used to deter these pests.
Sawfly Larvae
Identification: Sawfly larvae are caterpillar-like insects with multiple pairs of legs along their bodies. They feed on the leaves of plants and may cause significant defoliation if left unchecked.
Treatment: To eliminate sawfly larvae from lingonberry plants, you can pick them off by hand and drop them into a bucket of soapy water. Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray is also effective in controlling sawfly larvae infestations.
Currant Fruit Fly
Identification: Currant fruit flies are small, black flies that lay their eggs on ripening berries. The larvae feed inside the fruit, causing it to rot and drop prematurely.
Treatment: To prevent currant fruit fly infestations on lingonberry plants, you can use sticky traps to monitor fly activity. Harvesting berries promptly and removing any fallen fruit can also help reduce infestations.
Leaf Miners
Identification: Leaf miners are small larvae that tunnel through the leaves of plants, leaving distinctive serpentine trails behind.
Treatment: To control leaf miners on lingonberry plants, you can remove and destroy affected leaves. Insecticidal sprays containing spinosad or neem oil can also help eradicate leaf miner populations.
In conclusion, keeping an eye out for these common lingonberry plant pests and promptly addressing any infestations is crucial to maintaining healthy plants and ensuring a bountiful harvest of delicious berries. By implementing proper identification techniques and employing effective treatment methods, you can protect your lingonberry plants from damage caused by pests and enjoy a thriving garden full of these delightful fruits.