RIVERSIDE – (INT) – The public is being enlisted to help fight what is shaping up to be the worst threat yet to California citrus.

Asian citrus psyllids can spread the huanglongbing (HLB) disease, an incurable condition that eventually kills all varieties of citrus trees.

It was first detected in California in 2008 after ravaging the citrus industry in Florida and Texas.

Researchers are scrambling for a cure while asking for help from citrus farmers and home gardeners.

New leaves emerging on citrus marks a critical time to determine whether the pest has infested trees.

Check out a video at http://ucanr.edu/acp.

Story Date: May 7, 2016