Pecan Nut Casebearer

            Pecan growers and homeowners with backyard trees need to be on the lookout for the pecan nut casebearer, a perennial pest that can significantly damage a pecan crop if not controlled.

            Based on Extension Entomologist’s predictions and current Wise and Parker County trap findings, control for first generation casebearers should be applied to pecan trees May 20-23.  To determine if spraying is necessary, check pecan clusters for eggs and nut entries on a daily basis.  Eggs are usually found on the tips of nutlets and are about the size of the end of a ball point pen.  The eggs are white when first laid, then turn pink to red over a three to five day period before hatching.

            Apply an insecticide the third day after the first eggs hatch to kill the larvae before they enter the nutlets.  Since larvae will be hatching over a week-long period or more, a second spraying may be necessary.

            Suggested insecticides for homeowners include:  Bt which has been effective in several tests and when timed accurately will not harm beneficial insects, also sprays containing Spinosad, Malathion and Sevin.  Suggested insecticides for commercial growers include:  Bt, Lorsban, Sevin, Imidan, Confirm 2F, Intrepid and Malathion.  The Bt, Sevin and Malathion would be better choices if livestock are grazing in the orchard.   

Follow label directions when using pesticides.