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Battling infestation of black olive trees across South Florida

DAVIE, Fla. – For years black olive trees have been a big part of South Florida’s urban forest.

While they provide a critical natural canopy in our neighborhoods they can also be problematic.

These shade trees are commonly attacked by a particular type of mite and a caterpillar.

The by-products of these pests can cause severe staining on sidewalks, streets, cars and homes.

“Then what happens with the mites present and increasing the time for the caterpillar being active it can further cause more defoliation so you get more and more leaf litter accumulating and sitting on roofs which can cause problems with rodents, there can be mold,” said Dr. Brian Bahder with U.F.’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

He says the mites and caterpillars can be managed with external spraying or internal injection of insecticide.

Bahder says the problem is specific to this time of year, early-to-mid spring, which is when black olive trees flower, attracting the insects.


About the Authors
Kristi Krueger headshot

Kristi Krueger has built a solid reputation as an award-winning medical reporter and effervescent anchor. She joined Local 10 in August 1993. After many years co-anchoring the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m., Kristi now co-anchors the noon newscasts, giving her more time in the evening with her family.

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