If you trap codling moths, treat your apples soon after the first flight has begun.
- The best time to spray is when most or all of the petals have fallen from the apple blossoms.
- Do not treat before this as the sprays will be ineffective and will also kill pollinating bees.
- Make a second spray, 7 to 10 days later.
Is it too late to spray for codling moth?
Insecticides should be applied before or just as eggs are hatching. Once the worm has gone into the fruit or nut, it is protected from pesticides. If insecticides are applied too late, larvae will have tunneled into the fruit where they can no longer be controlled by insecticides.
How do I get rid of codling moths on my apple tree?
Here are ways that you can help eradicate codling moths prevent them from destroying your apple trees:
- Encourage natural predators and insects.
- Use beneficial nematodes.
- Use pyrethrin-based insecticide.
- Hang moth traps.
- Use a spinosad-based spray.
- Fruit bagging.
- Try trunk banding.
