She says that cherry growers also take other measures, such as using fine nets that are hung around the orchard. The flies cannot get through and the trees are protected. But that method does not always work, says researcher Helsen. “If there are already a few flies in a packed orchard, you will still have to take measures to prevent them from multiplying quickly.” And that’s where pesticides come into play. “There are currently no good alternatives to chemicals,” said the expert.
Cherry growers at the mercy of Suzuki flies after pesticide ban
