Hi Shaylynn –
Use pheromone traps to determine when codling moths arrive, then release trichogramma wasps to attack their eggs. Releases should be made when codling moths are first present and periodically thereafter. We suggest releasing 5,000 (1 square) per 5,000 square feet weekly, for 3-6 weeks.
Note: Trichogramma wasps are shipped as pupae in host eggs, glued to paper strips, and arrive ready to hatch out as adult wasps. They can be stored after receipt for 2-5 days, between 47 โ 50 F. However, the longer they are stored, the higher the mortality rate will be. DO NOT FREEZE.
We also recommend the following organic treatments to prevent wormy apples. These products can be used by themselves or together (with trichogramma) as part of an integrated approach to codling moth control.
Scrape loose bark in early spring to remove overwintering cocoons and then spray All Seasonsยฎย horticultural oilย to eradicate eggs and first generation early instar stages.
Beneficial nematodesย are microscopic, worm-like parasites that actively hunt, penetrate and destroy immatureย stages of this pest.ย Spray on trunks and main branches, and alsoย over theย soilย out to the drip line for a 60% to 90% mortality in pre-pupae.
Surround WP — a wettableย kaolin clay — can be used toย deterย a broad range of fruit treeย pests (and diseases), and will reduce codling moth damage byย 50-60%. Apply before moths arrive and continue for 6-8 weekly applications, orย until the infestation is over.
In areas of severe infestation, spray botanical insecticides when 75% of petals have fallen, followed by three sprays at 1-2 week intervals. These natural pesticides have fewer harmful side effects than synthetic chemicals and break down more quickly in the environment.
Hope it helps!
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