Insect Netting: Hope for California’s Citrus Industry, a Solid Barrier Against Huanglongbing

In the face of this crisis, insect netting technology is becoming one of the most reliable lines of defense for fruit growers. It is not only efficient and environmentally friendly, but also significantly reduces the risk of disease transmission. In this blog, we will explore:Citrus Huanglongbing (HLB) - the "invisible killer" of California citrus
Citrus Huanglongbing, also known as "Greening Disease", is caused by a bacterium (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus) and is carried and transmitted by the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP). After infection, trees will show: yellowing and mottled leaves
Fruits are deformed, smaller, and taste bitter
Trees gradually weaken and eventually die

Why HLB is so terrible

There is currently no cure, only prevention.
One infected psyllid can infect an entire orchard.
Florida has lost billions of dollars due to HLB, California must prepare for the rainy day!

While chemical pesticides can control psyllids in the short term, long-term use will increase pesticide resistance in seedlings and may harm the environment and pollinators. In contrast, insect nets offer a sustainable solution that provides effective protection through physical barriers

How do insect nets work?

40-50 mesh fine net: completely blocks psyllids from entering the orchard.

Whole-garden coverage or single-row coverage: different installation methods can be selected according to cost and demand.

No impact on ventilation and light: special materials ensure healthy growth of trees.

Core advantages

✅ Highly effective insect prevention: Reduces psyllid invasion by more than 90%.

✅ Reduces pesticide use: Reduces the cost of chemical control and is more environmentally friendly.

✅ Protects pollinating insects: Does not affect the activities of beneficial insects such as bees.

✅ Long-term economic returns: Although the initial investment is high, it can significantly reduce subsequent management costs.

Does insect netting really work?

Lessons and experiences from Florida

Florida suffered heavy losses due to HLB, but the infection rate of orchards using insect nets was reduced by more than 80%, and the fruit quality and yield were significantly improved.

Long before this, Spain and Israel successfully applied and reduced many disasters:
Insect nets are widely used in the citrus region of Valencia, Spain, to effectively control psyllids and secure export markets.
Israel adopts "net house cultivation" to almost completely block the spread of HLB.
In local trials in California, some farms in Riverside County and the Central Valley have begun to use insect nets. Preliminary data show that the number of psyllids has dropped by 90%, and the health of fruit trees has improved significantly.

How to use insect nets?
High-risk areas (such as areas where psyllids have been reported) should be given priority.
New plantations are more suitable for full garden coverage, and old orchards can choose single-row protection.

40-50 mesh (aperture of about 0.3mm) is the most effective.
UV-resistant and durable material, with a lifespan of 5-10 years.

A professional team can be hired to install to ensure sealing.
Check for damage regularly to prevent psyllids from entering through gaps.

Combined with other prevention and control measures
Set up yellow board traps to detect psyllids in time.
Treat diseased seedlings to keep them healthy
Introduce parasitic wasps (such as Tamarixia radiata) to help control psyllids.

Take action to protect your farm's citrus future!
The threat of HLB is imminent, but insect screens offer a viable and effective solution. Whether you are a large commercial orchard or a family farm, early action is the key to avoiding a repeat of Florida's fate.