Native Plants
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
rate this answer
Monday - July 27, 2009
From: Killeen, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Pests
Title: What causes peach fruit to ooze sap?
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
I have a peach tree at our new house. The peaches are small and yellow but appeared healthy. Now it looks like they are oozing or weeping sap out of several places on each one. I dont know if its a disease or a pest or what to do about it. I am sure this year is a loss but is there anything I can do for next year?ANSWER:
Peach, Prunus persica, is a non-native species and is outside our area of expertise. However, we may be able to help some. The culprit is likely Stinkbug, but other insects including Peach twig borer, Plum curculio, and Green June beetle are all possibilities. A fungal disease is less likely based on your description of the problem.
You should first contact your county's Cooperative Extension Service agent to find out how to positively identify the cause of the damage to your fruit. When you have determined the ID of the pest, your extension agent will be able to make recommendations about how to protect your crop.
More Non-Natives Questions
Problems with non-native Pink Jasmine from Austin
March 23, 2011 - A week or so ago, I purchased two beautiful pink jasmine vines. The first few days after planting, they did wonderful. Now, some leaves and stems are turning brown and some flowers have fallen off. ...
view the full question and answer
Planting a non-native Solandra nitida in Cape Town, South Africa
August 26, 2009 - How long does it take a Cup of Gold (Solandra Nitida) to flower when planted from a cutting. The site is against a North facing wall. It gets afternoon sun. Plant looks healthy and is approximately ...
view the full question and answer
Damage to non-native peach trees in Austin
January 02, 2010 - I have 3 peach trees, different varieties. In the past years it has just produced worm-eaten fruit, most of which falls to the ground before ripening. Can these trees be treated for a better crop th...
view the full question and answer
Non-native blue potato bush in El Dorado Hills CA
June 12, 2010 - I have two blue potato bush topiary planted in my front porch in a very big planter. It's getting a full afternoon sun. I am wondering why they are losing their leaves??? Am I overwatering them??? Al...
view the full question and answer
Information about non-native Feijoa sellowiana (pineapple guave)
April 01, 2010 - Does a pineapple guava thrive in Austin, zip 78735? What height does it grow and what watering is needed?
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |