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How to remove coddling moth larvae from your fruit
Get rid of coddling moth larvae in your fruit with these easy steps
Coddling moth larvae are notorious pests that can ruin your fruit harvest. These pests are commonly found in apple, pear, and quince trees. If you notice small holes in your fruit or find worms inside, it's likely that your fruit has been infested with coddling moth larvae. Follow these steps to remove coddling moth larvae from your fruit:
Step 1: Identify the infested fruit
Before you start removing larvae from your fruit, you need to identify which fruits are infested. Look for small holes in the fruit, usually near the stem. You may also see frass, which is a mixture of sawdust and excrement, near the holes.
Step 2: Remove infested fruit
Once you have identified the infested fruit, remove it from the tree and dispose of it. Do not leave infested fruit on the ground as this can attract more pests.
Step 3: Cut out the larvae
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut out the affected area of the fruit. Make sure to cut deep enough to remove all the larvae. If you're unsure whether you have removed all the larvae, you can cut the fruit in half to check.
Step 4: Check for pupae
After removing the larvae, check the fruit for pupae. Pupae are the cocoon stage of the coddling moth and can be found on the surface of the fruit or inside the fruit. Remove any pupae you find.
Step 5: Use pheromone traps
To prevent future infestations, use pheromone traps to capture male coddling moths. These traps use synthetic sex pheromones to attract male moths and prevent them from mating with females. Place the traps in your fruit trees before the moths start laying eggs.
Step 6: Practice good orchard hygiene
To prevent coddling moth infestations, practice good orchard hygiene. Remove fallen fruit from the ground, prune your trees regularly, and keep the area around your trees clean.
In conclusion, removing coddling moth larvae from your fruit requires careful inspection and removal of affected fruit. Using pheromone traps and practicing good orchard hygiene can help prevent future infestations. By following these steps, you can ensure a healthy and bountiful fruit harvest.
