Citrus Fruit Damage: Fruit Rats vs. Whiteflies

Holes in Oranges and Grapefruit

Fruit has pencil-sized holes with interior eaten out. White flying insects were present but eliminated with Sevin spray.

Identifying the Culprits

• Fruit Rats: They bore into fruit (often at the navel) and hollow it out. This is the primary cause of the damage.
• Whiteflies: The tiny white insects are whiteflies; they suck sap but don't bore fruit.

Organic Management

Use 100% pure neem oil (Dyna-Gro) to control whiteflies, scale, and other pests. It's organic, alters leaf taste so pests leave, and acts as a fungicide and miticide. Spray new growth only after initial application.

Key Tip

If a plant has recurring issues, spray preventatively each season.