Notes
on Apple Insects
Mullein bug
Identification
Mullein
bug (MB) nymphs are tiny (0.5 to 2.5 mm), oval shaped and translucent. See Figure
1. Distinguishing Bug Nymphs. As they mature they become pale greenish in colour.
Mullein bug nymphs feed on developing fruit from bloom through petal fall, creating
small raised bumps or "stings" on the fruit surface. Fruits that have
multiple stings often abort during June drop. Damaged fruit that remains on the
tree may develop small corky warts.
Figure
1 - Distinguishing Bug Nymphs
Period of activity
While mullein
bugs can be found in orchards from pink until harvest, they only cause damage
until three weeks after petal fall. Otherwise they are beneficial insects, feeding
on aphids and mites.
Monitoring and thresholds
Use a tapping
tray to monitor for mullein bugs. Tap one limb per tree on 25 trees per block.
Insecticide sprays are recommended in orchards with seven to nine nymphs per 25
taps.
Management notes
Monitoring and management of this pest
is only required until three weeks after petal fall.
Learn more...
