Mealybug infestations in New Zealand apples declined when integrated fruit production was implemented in the late 1990s In Hawkes Bay however mealybugs have recently become an increasing problem The mean incidence of mealybugs at harvest increased from 17 in 2008 to 22 in 2010 In 2009 and 2010 almost 50 of blocks had a higher incidence than the previous year Analysis of spray diaries suggested that spray programmes up to 200910 were inadequate to maintain longterm suppression of mealybugs Key

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... ctors were the number of insecticide sprays their time of application and the choice of product but not spray coverage Consequently in spring 2010 orchard managers were encouraged to follow a best practice spray programme against mealybugs which led to markedly improved mealybug control At harvest in 2011 the mean incidence was 07 and just 14 of blocks had more mealybugs than the previous year while almost 60 had fewer