Matt's Plants & Co – Australia

The Queensland fruit fly is just as much of a threat to Victoria as it is to Queensland.

Despite their name, these pesky pests are not just found in Queensland – they’ve been making their way across the borders for years.

And the wet spring we just had has offered ideal conditions for breeding, sparking a warning about Queensland fruit fly from Victoria’s agriculture body in January 2023.

In October, they released an additional statement encouraging home gardeners to use netting to protect fruit trees against Queensland fruit fly.

It’s important to keep an eye out for them as these flies can ruin your fruit and vegetables.

Tiny puncture marks and softening fruit could indicate that you have an infestation.

But the best solution is prevention and the most effective way to prevent an infestation is by using insect-proof netting around your crops.

Remember, if you do find Queensland fruit fly, tell your neighbours so they can check their produce too.

Originally posted on January 29, 2023, and updated on October 5, 2023.