Citrus greening spreads as Brazil’s orchards move into new regions

With citrus farming expanding into new regions of Brazil, growers are being urged to take stronger measures against citrus greening, a disease that has already caused major losses in traditional growing areas. In response, Fundecitrus, an organization dedicated to protecting citrus farming, has launched a campaign stressing the importance of strict psyllid control — the insect responsible for spreading the disease.

Many farmers are moving their orchards to Goiás, Mato Grosso do Sul, and parts of Minas Gerais to escape the high infection rates in São Paulo’s Citrus Belt. But experts warn that without proper disease management, greening could take hold in these new areas as well.

The expansion of commercial citrus farms is naturally increasing psyllid movement, making it easier for greening to spread. To keep orchards safe, growers must follow a strict pest control routine, including rotating insecticides, applying treatments correctly, choosing effective products, and removing infected plants as soon as they appear.

Greening has already been detected in more than 30 municipalities in Mato Grosso do Sul and in citrus farms in Goiás, showing just how quickly the disease can spread if left unchecked. Citrus growers are being reminded that constant monitoring and immediate action are key to protecting the future of Brazil’s citrus industry.

source: citrusindustry.net

photo: gardeningknowhow.com