Expanding the program for controlling the black flathead borer in perennial crops

18.02.2026 | Agriculture

The national program for pest control in perennial crops is expanding, including control of the black flathead borer (Capnodis tenebrionis). The program includes measures during the winter period and financial support for farmers.

Снимка от Gilles San Martin from Namur, Belgium, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

In connection with the expansion of the territory of the black borer, the scope of the “National Program for Pest Control in Permanent Plantations during the Winter Period” is expanded, including the control of this pest. The program, approved in 2013, aims at preventive plant protection measures after leaf fall and before bud swelling.

The program is structured in two parts: pest control in permanent plantations and black borer control. It is implemented under the name “National Program for Pest Control in Permanent Plantations during the Winter Period and Black Borer Control (Capnodis tenebrionis)”.

An interdepartmental working group has been formed and a “Guidance for the implementation of black borer control measures” has been approved. The scope includes control in stone fruit (plum, cherry, sour cherry, peach, apricot) and pome fruit species (apple, pear). It is permissible for fruit nurseries, young and fruiting plantations. Financial support covers biological agents and plant protection products.

The branch chamber “Fruits and Vegetables” expressed concern about the problem with the black borer.