Our plums have been attacked by guava moth - what can we do to prevent this happening next year?

Hi Jennifer, guava moth unfortunately can be a problem with plums. At present no completely effective treatments exist. Guava moths lay their eggs on the fruit and the larva burrows into the fruit. It is very hard to treat once the plant is affected and is a big problem in warmer regions. Prevention is the best method of control. Cover your trees with fine netting immediately after flowering (when the petals have fallen) to protect the fruit. Secure with tape to the supporting branch. Remove fallen and rotting fruit, and dead leaves and mulch from under the tree as often the moths lay eggs in these areas.

Guava moth pheromone delta traps with sticky bases are available from garden centres and rural suppliers.