For the third consecutive year, the cottony cushion scale pest is suffocating farmers in various areas of Jaén province, particularly in the regions of Las Villas, Sierra de Segura, and Cazorla. Towns such as Villanueva del Arzobispo, Villacarrillo, Sorihuela del Guadalimar, Chilluévar, Cazorla, Beas de Segura, Santo Tomé, Arroyo del Ojanco, and La Puerta de Segura are among the most affected.
This cottony mass covers the olive tree's flowers and leaves, preventing photosynthesis and tree growth. Furthermore, by coating the inflorescences, it can cause floral abortion and hinder fruit development, especially when colonies exceed eight insects. The situation has led to a harvest reduction that, in some cases, has reached 90%.
“"They are driving us to ruin."
The pest began to spread in 2024, prompting the Junta de Andalucía, through Plant Health, to authorize a specific treatment. However, farmers report that, after three years, the situation has not improved, and available products are proving ineffective. The lack of clear guidelines and communication from technicians is a recurring complaint within the sector.
“"I understand that the first time it appears, it's complicated to know what's happening, but after three years, seeing the fields white again angers any farmer. The plague is everywhere again. Farmers are doing their job, but this is not viable for any farmer, and the most difficult terrains are being abandoned."
Adding to the ineffectiveness of treatments is the increase in general costs, such as fertilizers and diesel, as well as an olive oil price at origin that does not exceed four and a half euros. This combination of factors means that expenses far outweigh profits, especially for those with few olive trees or in mountainous areas, where the physical and economic effort is even greater.
“"The products we have are ineffective, and we are just spending money; the situation is at its limit."
The pest's spread is widespread, reaching areas like Sorihuela del Guadalimar and Chiclana de Segura, where it had not been detected in previous campaigns. A sense of institutional abandonment is palpable among olive growers, who warn that the window for reaction is minimal and that, if the situation continues, it could paralyze Jaén's economy.
