16 March 2025
What's bugging you?
How to Identify and Eradicate the Passionvine Hopper Bugs on Plants
Though named for their preference for passionfruit vines, Passionvine Hopper Bugs (Scolypopa australis) can also be found on other plants, in my garden I find them on my dahlias and blackberries. If you've noticed these pests on your garden favorites, here’s how to identify and manage them effectively. The immature stage of these pests are small, fluffy, and resemble "bum-like" bugs. They’re typically white or waxy and can be found on the undersides of leaves or stems. When they mature, passionvine hoppers become black and white, measuring 1-2 cm long. They have a characteristic hopping movement.
How to Eradicate Passionvine Hopper Bugs
Pyrethrins, derived from chrysanthemums, or synthetic pyrethroids work great against these bugs. Apply early in the infestation, targeting both nymphs and adults. I use the
Yates Natures Way Citrus, Vegie & Ornamental Insect Spray.
Spray when you first spot the fluffy nymphs. Reapply every 7-14 days, especially after rain, as the insecticide can wash off. Strong, healthy plants are better able to resist pests. Regularly water, prune, and fertilize your plants.
Also encourage beneficial predators like ladybugs and predatory wasps which can help reduce the hopper population.
2 March 2025
Nutola
To start off the weekend in preparation for the week ahead I have prepared Nutola and chia pudding for my breakfast. Truth be told I will eat this anytime of the day especially if I don't want to cook!
Nutola
500 gm raw mixed nuts
1 cup coconut, fancy thread
1-2 tbsp coconut oil
2 tbsp honey or nectar
Method
Melt the coconut oil and honey together, combine the ingredients and spread evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Roast at 200°C in 5-minute intervals, stirring each time, until everything is lightly golden — this should take about 10 minutes. Once golden, add 1 cup of shredded coconut and roast for an additional 3 minutes. Be mindful, as the coconut will brown quickly.
Let the mixture cool before transferring it into an airtight container.
Enjoy it sprinkled over chia pudding with chopped seasonal fruit!