Biosecurity officer Glen Coupar said sound management was essential to control pests and diseases which could threaten WA’s wine and fruit industries.

“Pests and diseases such as fruit fly and curly leaf in orchards and mildew on vines easily cross to neighbouring properties,” Mr Coupar said.

“This means that one neglected orchard or vineyard can cause problems for other growers.

“It is vital that landholders take responsibility to manage vines and fruit trees on their land.

“If trees and vines are not correctly managed, they must be removed.

“All landholders are required under State Government legislation (Plant Diseases Act 1914) to ensure orchards and vineyards are properly managed to reduce the risk of pests and diseases.”

Mr Coupar said the department had specialised officers who could advise landholders and recommend pest and disease control methods.

“Ongoing maintenance is vital,” he said.

“This includes removing fruit on the ground, removing dead trees or vines, carrying out adequate weed control, managing pests and diseases and pruning and removing dead and diseased limbs.

“Home gardeners, particularly those within commercial orchard or vineyard areas, should also control pests and diseases in fruit trees and vines.”

Mr Coupar said correct irrigation and fertiliser applications were also important to maintain healthy trees or vines.

Assistance is available from Department of Agriculture and Food offices.

More information is also available from the website at www.agric.wa.gov.au

Search under ‘neglect’ or ‘fruit trees’.