Chilli Pests & Animal Attacks
Common Pests on Chilli Plants:
- Broad Mites
- Aphids
- Fruit Flies
- Whiteflies
- Caterpillars
- Snails
- Possums
As your chili plants grow and approach harvest, they may face challenges from pests or animals. Below are strategies for managing these issues:
Broad Mites:
Symptoms: Curled and deformed new growth on plants. Broad mites lay eggs on the underside of leaves and in crevices around the plant. They prefer newer leaves and cause malformation and stunted growth.
Treatment: Spray with Lime Sulphur or Mancozeb Plus. Mancozeb Plus contains Sulphur, which is effective against broad mites. Ensure thorough application, especially under the leaves. Follow the product instructions for dosage and frequency.
Aphids:
Symptoms: Small insects (2-4 mm) found primarily underneath leaves.
Treatment:
- Introduce natural predators like ladybirds and parasitic wasps.
- Use Pyrethrum for natural control.
- For larger infestations, apply Confidor, a systemic insecticide that targets aphids effectively.
Whiteflies:
Symptoms: Whiteflies can appear suddenly. They cause a noticeable “snowstorm” of tiny insects when the plant is disturbed.
Treatment:
- Alternate sprays such as Confidor to manage whiteflies. Apply early in the morning or late afternoon.
- White Oil can also be used.
Fruit Flies:
Symptoms: Brown dots on pods, which may drop and become soft. Inside, you may find maggots.
Treatment:
- Use traps designed for fruit flies and dispose of affected pods.
- If traps are ineffective, apply Malathon or Spinosad for natural control.
- A homemade trap using Vegemite and water can attract male fruit flies.
Caterpillars and Grasshoppers:
Treatment:
- Use “Nature’s Way” containing Dipel, which is effective for controlling caterpillars, millipedes, and grasshoppers. This product is natural and easy to use.
Snails and Slugs:
Treatment:
- Apply snail and slug pellets to control these pests. Hortico Snail & Slug Pellets are economical and effective.
Possums and Rats:
Treatment:
- Possums and rats may consume chilies, including those with habanero heat. To deter them, make a chili water spray by boiling dried super-hot chilies in water. Once cooled, spray the mixture on your plants.