Insect

Citrus Gall Wasp

A small native Australian wasp whose larvae develop inside citrus stems, forming woody elongated galls that weaken branches and reduce fruit production.

Symptoms to Look For

Elongated woody swellings on young branches, typically 5 - 20 cm long
Reduced fruit production and dieback of branches beyond the gall
Multiple galls coalescing on heavily infested young trees

Affected Plants

LemonOrangeLimeGrapefruitCitrus

Organic Solutions

Prune out galls

Cut branches containing galls 10 cm below the gall in August before adult emergence; seal cut ends with grafting wax or pruning paste.

Bag galls

Where pruning would remove too much structure, bag individual galls with tied plastic bags to trap emerging adults and prevent spread.

Prevention

Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding which promotes the soft new growth that females prefer for egg-laying
Inspect trees annually in late summer for new galls while they are still small

Garden, by Willowbottom recommends only organic, wildlife-friendly solutions. No synthetic pesticides, no harmful chemicals - ever.