Citrus Greening
July 30, 2021

July 30, 2021

What is Citrus Greening?

Two oranges, half green, half orange, on a tree branch, lying on dark textured ground.

Originally coined as Huanglongbing, or 'Yellow Dragon Disease' in Chinese Mandarin, Citrus Greening remains a persistent menace to citrus trees and related species. Caused by the bacterial culprit Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLA), this disease continues to wreak havoc on Florida's citrus industry. It is crucial to note that the original information, though from 2021, remains pertinent as Citrus Greening, exacerbated by the invasive citrus psyllids (Diaphorina citri Kuwayama), continues to adversely affect Florida's citrus crop.
As highlighted by aphis.usda.gov, this disease, often abbreviated as HLB, stands as the most serious threat to individual trees and the broader citrus industry. Movement of infected trees, their leaves, twigs, branches, and fruit out of the infected area is strictly discouraged.  Identifying Citrus Greening: A Challenging Task Identifying Citrus Greening proves challenging as trees can remain asymptomatic for extended periods post-infection. Vigilance is key, particularly in spotting citrus psyllids and their eggs.

A small, mottled brown thrip insect on a bright green plant leaf.

(Adult shown. Eggs can be seen at this link: EGGS )

Once symptoms manifest, they include green color on ripe fruit, blotchy mottle leaves, asymmetric yellowing, stunted growth, reduced fruit size, premature fruit drop, corky veins, and root decline. Unfortunately, the disease is fatal, and with no current treatment available, prevention takes precedence.
Preventing the Onslaught: Control of Citrus Psyllids The best defense against Citrus Greening is the control of citrus psyllids. While eradicating the insect is challenging, their population can be managed through combinations or rotations of horticultural mineral oil, malathion, and other insecticides. Various treatments are applied to the canopy and soil to keep the psyllid population in check. As emphasized earlier, once a tree is infected, removal is the only recourse. Proper offsite disposal, handled by knowledgeable arborists such as those at Mid Florida Tree Service, is essential to prevent further spread.
A Glimmer of Hope: Ongoing Research and Management Though ongoing studies aim to develop anti-bacterial agents to combat Citrus Greening, complete solutions are yet to be realized. While progress is being made, management of the disease, including vigilant psyllid control and timely tree removal, remains the most effective strategy until a comprehensive solution is available.

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