Here’s what you can do to protect your olive trees, even in a natural way.
The summer of 2025 is bringing with it a major outbreak of the olive fruit fly (Bactrocera oleae), one of the most feared pests for olive growers. This small pest can seriously compromise the quality of the oil and damage the fruits to the point of premature drop.
As a mill, we constantly monitor our olive groves and want to share useful advice also with those who cultivate just a few trees, whether for passion or personal use.
What is the olive fruit fly?
It is an insect that lays its eggs inside the olive. When the larvae develop, they feed on the pulp, causing:
premature fruit drop
loss of weight and oil yield
higher acidity and risk of fermentation (defective oil)
Simple and effective protocol (also organic)
Here is a basic plan suitable for everyone, without the use of professional chemicals:
1. Check the olives weekly
Observe the olives to spot holes or dark spots. Open a few to check for the presence of larvae.
2. Install traps for monitoring and capture
Use attractive traps such as Tap Trap or Eco Trap, with baits based on ammonia, wine, sugar, or vinegar.
Recommended: one trap every 2–3 trees, preferably in the shade.
3. Use products allowed in organic farming
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Kaolin: creates a white protective barrier, reflects light, and hinders egg laying.
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Spinosad: a natural insecticide that is highly effective, but in most cases it requires a phytosanitary license for purchase. There are some formulations for hobby use (e.g. Success GR Garden), but it is always advisable to check the label or ask the retailer.
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Rock powders or zeolite: act as a physical protection and reduce plant stress.
4. Treat only if necessary
If more than 10–15% of the olives are affected, it is advisable to take action.
Carry out treatments during the coolest hours of the day, avoiding wind and approaching rain.
Who can use plant protection products?
Farmers with a phytosanitary license
They can use authorized plant protection products, including:
Spinosad (organic)
Deltamethrin (contact insecticide)
EPIK (acetamiprid): acts as a systemic larvicide effective against the olive fruit fly.
They must follow the regulations on dosages, application methods, and pre-harvest intervals.
Those without a license / private individuals / small producers
They cannot purchase or use professional chemical products.
They can instead use biological or mechanical methods, which are safe and permitted.
You too, with just a few simple steps, can protect your olives and contribute to the quality of the harvest.