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Management of Codling Moth #775713

Asked October 18, 2021, 2:24 PM EDT

Instead of pesticides, I’d like to try using a physical barrier or trap around the trunk of my apple tree to reduce Codling Moth. When/how should I do this and what are good materials to use?

Marion County Oregon

Expert Response

Trunk banding/trapping is used to catch the insects after they have left the fruit and are moving down to the ground to pupate. So this wouldn't protect your 2022 crop but could reduce the number of moths that could damage the summer 2023 fruit.

This publication from Colorado State University Extension has a great description. Copied here (click the link to see the figures):

Trunk banding involves purposefully providing areas for pupation, so that the insects can later be destroyed. Bands can be created by cutting strips of corrugated cardboard 1 1/2 to 2 inches wide and long enough to wrap around a branch. (Burlap, tied to the trunk, may also be used as a band.) Place the cardboard bands around branches at points where there is a transition from smooth to rough bark (Figures 10a and 10b). Place the corrugated face of band around branch and staple. As the codling moth larvae leave apples, they will crawl down the branch and move into the corrugated openings as a site for pupation. If there is loose bark on the fruit trees that can provide alternate places for pupation the bark flaps should be removed.

During the growing season bands should be checked frequently (every week or two), during periods that coincide with the end of a generation, the time when the full-grown larvae are moving to pupation sites. The larvae can be killed by crushing or removing and replacing bands. Larvae that are overwintering within the band can be removed any time after apples have been removed from the tree and before the emergence of adults the following spring.

Hope this helps and let me know what additional questions you have!

Thank you!  Good information and the link to the CSU publication is very helpful.  
Nancy 

On Oct 18, 2021, at 2:57 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied October 18, 2021, 6:14 PM EDT

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