Grapevine Mealybug TrapThe Grapevine Mealy Bug trap works by attracting and capturing flying male mealybugs. It is more sensitive and accurate than intensive visual sampling for detecting GVMB infestations. The male insects are small with a brownish body, one pair of wings, a small v-shaped tail and long antennae. They are thinner and smaller than fruit flies. Trapped insects decay quickly and are hard to identify. The female insect does not fly. Female GVMB are small, soft, and oval with a pinkish body covered in white mealy wax. The insects reproduce 4 to 7 times a year in California. Females lay 300 to 500 eggs a year. They infest vineyards throughout the San Joaquin and Coachello Valleys, as well as Northern and coastal vineyards. The insect produces honeydew that covers grapes and leaves in sooty mold. Infested grape clusters are not marketable. GVMB can also transmit viral diseases of grape. Set and hang this trap on canes support wires at about 5’ high, near the center of the vine. Do not block entrance holes of the trap. Place traps starting in late February. Replace traps every 3 months until November. Use at least 2 traps in any location, spaced as far apart as possible. use 2 traps per 20 acres in a commercial vineyard, placed about 200 feet apart. Service traps weekly, replacing dirty or damage traps as necessary. Lure last at least 3 months.
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