Soursop is an important crop in Grenada and the country can export fresh fruit to the United States. The UN says soursop now brings valuable foreign earnings to Grenada.
A sucking insect called croton scale caused new concern after farmers sent samples and confirmed it in May 2020. The pest makes honeydew and sooty mold that reduce fruit quality. Farmers tried pesticides, neem oil, pruning and spraying, but infestations returned. Authorities began to use biological control and training so farmers can recognise useful insects, and they continue to monitor farms for the pest.
Difficult words
- export — send goods to another country to sell
- earning — money a person or country receivesearnings
- pest — animal or insect that harms plants or crops
- infestation — large number of pests on plants or animalsinfestations
- biological control — use of natural enemies to reduce pests
- monitor — watch something for changes or problems
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you or someone you know seen pests on fruit or plants? What happened?
- Which control method in the article seems best to you and why?
- Why is soursop important for Grenada?
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