Sightings Of A Destructive Pest In Albany

If you are a home gardener in Albany you are being urged to help check for and control the insect pest, tomato potato psyllid (TPP), after an infestation in a backyard vegetable patch was discovered in the area.

TPP is a tiny sap-sucking insect that affects a range of plants including tomato, potato, capsicum, chilli, eggplant and sweet potato.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development chief plant biosecurity officer Sonya Broughton said the pest was reported by a vigilant member of the public on capsicum, chilli and tomato plants in a home garden in Albany, and was confirmed by department scientists.

“Gardeners should look out for this pest and be aware of the control options available, which include a range of chemical or eco-friendly spray options,” Dr Broughton said.

“This includes checking plants for insect eggs, nymphs and adults on leaves.

“Look for signs of leaf damage, including yellowing or purpling of leaf margins or upward curling of leaves.”

Dr Broughton said good control of insect pests such as TPP was important to minimise spread to other gardens and limit the potential to spread to commercial horticulture production areas.

Commercial vegetable growers, the nursery industry and home gardeners are reminded of conditions on the movement of host plants to other parts of WA outside of the quarantine area to help contain and control TPP.

More information on TPP and control options is available from the department website agric.wa.gov.au/tpp