As Spain enters the second half of May, fluctuating spring weather and changing pest dynamics are triggering an uptick in crop health threats across several key farming regions. From fungal diseases in cereals and olive trees to insect infestations in fruit orchards, and even hail damage from recent storms, Spanish farmers must stay alert and take timely measures to protect their yields.
This report compiles the most recent official plant health alerts and field observations from across Spain (May 8–19, 2025), helping you identify symptoms, act early, and apply best management practices.
Winter Cereals
Yellow Rust in Wheat (Puccinia striiformis)
- Region: Castilla y León
- Alert Date: May 8, 2025
Symptoms:
- Bright yellow-orange pustules in linear stripes on leaves
- Leaf yellowing and early drying
- Reduced grain filling and yield loss if not controlled
Recommendations:
- Monitor fields with susceptible varieties, especially after rainfall or irrigation
- Treat with authorized fungicides when infection exceeds thresholds
- Rotate with non-host crops and plant resistant varieties when available
Pome Fruits – Apples and Pears
Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella)
- Region: Aragón
- Alert Date: May 9, 2025
Symptoms:
- Entry holes and frass (sawdust-like excreta) in fruit
- Internal fruit tunneling by larvae
- Premature fruit drop and poor market quality
Recommendations:
- Use pheromone traps to monitor adult moth activity
- Apply insecticides at the correct moment (e.g., 1st generation larvae emergence)
- Promote beneficial insects and disrupt moth cycles through cultural methods
Olive Trees
Olive Leaf Spot (Repilo – Spilocaea oleagina)
- Region: Aragón
- Alert Date: May 9, 2025
Symptoms:
- Circular dark spots with yellow halos on upper leaf surfaces
- Premature leaf drop and bare branches
- Reduced flowering and fruiting if infections persist
Recommendations:
- Preventive fungicide sprays in moist weather (spring and autumn)
- Improve ventilation through pruning
- Remove fallen infected leaves from the orchard floor
Vector & Nuisance Insects
Black Fly & Tiger Mosquito
- Region: Ebro Valley (Aragón, Catalonia)
- Alert Date: May 19, 2025
Symptoms:
- For crops: generally minimal impact
- For farm workers: painful bites (black fly), disease transmission risk (tiger mosquito)
- Discomfort and health concerns during outdoor work
Recommendations:
- Eliminate breeding areas (standing water, clogged drains)
- Protect workers using repellents and proper clothing
- Report sightings via official apps: Mosquito Alert and Garrapata Alert
Storm and Hail Damage in Vineyards, Citrus, Almonds & Vegetables
Storms in Vall d’Albaida (Valencia Region)
The regional government has requested Spain’s central government to declare the Vall d’Albaida area and other municipalities in Valencia and Castellón as disaster zones. Heavy rains and hail on May 4th, 8th, 9th, and 10th caused severe damage to citrus, vineyards, almond trees, fruit trees, vegetables, and cereals. Infrastructure and rural roads were also affected.
Recommendations:
- Assess and document all crop and structural damage for insurance claims
- Notify Agroseguro for insurance inspection
- Prune damaged limbs and apply copper to prevent secondary infections
- Restore proper drainage and support soil structure
General Advisory
Pest Resurgence Linked to Restrictions on Plant Protection Products
Farmers are reporting an increase in secondary pests due to the banning of certain active substances, leading to difficulty in controlling multiple pest outbreaks.
Recommendations:
- Regularly consult the official MAPA Register of Phytosanitary Products
- Use mechanical, biological, and cultural practices as part of Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Join farmer networks to stay informed about safe alternatives
Final Recommendations
- Stay in touch with local Plant Protection Services and Regional Agricultural Bulletins.
- Monitor your crops weekly for symptoms or insect activity.
- Apply treatments only when thresholds are surpassed, using approved products responsibly.
- Keep field records and photos of any pest or disease occurrence for agronomic and insurance purposes.
Wikifarmer is committed to empowering farmers through timely, practical, and science-based knowledge. For more information, consult our Plant Health articles or contact your local agronomist.
References
https://www.agronewscastillayleon.com/alerta-fitosanitaria-roya
