Codling Moth Control - Residential Host Trees

All property owners with apple, pear or crabapple trees, or quince trees or shrubs, are responsible for controlling the codling moth on their property.

There are several control options available, and generally a combination of these methods is required.  Infestation can occur right up until late August and beyond, so it is essential that control methods be continued until late harvest.

Identification and Lifecycle

The first step in controlling the codling moth is proper identification, and an understanding of the moth's lifecycle. 

Spraying

There are several chemical pesticides on the market that provide some level of control of the codling moth.  It is crucial to read the labels of all pesticides and to follow the directions carefully.  Residents who are uncertain about their ability to properly spray trees should consider hiring a trained Professional Pesticide Applicator.  Click here for further information about spraying trees for codling moth control.

Organic Control

Organic control of the codling moth is one option for the backyard grower.  It is important to understand, however, that "being organic" does not mean, "doing nothing."  Organic controls require significant effort on the part of the tree owner. 

One organic technique that the SIR Program uses is applying cardboard banding to the trunks of host trees.  To learn more about cardboard banding, read here.

Removal of Blossoms and Fruit

Removing blossoms and fruit from host trees prior to June 1st is recommended for homeowners who want to keep trees but are not interested in the fruit.  Prune and open up the tree canopy during the dormant season (November to March) then snip off all blossom stems that appear in early spring.  No flowers = no fruit.  Continue to check the trees throughout the season and remove all missed fruit or new blossoms.

All infested fruit should be sent to the landfill or placed in a bucket of water for several days to drown the larvae.  Do not compost infested fruit.  Composting fruit allows moth larvae to continue their life cycle.

Tree Removal

Host tree owners should carefully consider the costs and benefits of growing backyard trees.  Host trees that will not get adequate care should be removed.  Wood from host trees that are removed should be burned, chipped or sent to the landfill.  Moths spin cocoons under the bark and if wood is sold or moved to another location, the moth moves with it and can infest a new area.

Firewood

Do not store firewood obtained from infested host trees.  Codling moth larvae live part of their life cocooned in the bark and crevices of tree trunks.  Burn, chip, or otherwise dispose of the wood.