Click here to read an article on mating disruption for codling moth.

MANAGEMENT OF CODLING MOTH
Control strategies for codling moth have typically involved the use of organophosphate insecticides targeted at hatching larvae. Accurate prediction of egg hatch is critical and is best accomplished with degree-day models*, pheromone traps and field scouting. However, with over use, codling moth has demonstrated resistance to organophosphate insecticides and the use of synthetic pyrethroids has often resulted in increased costs for aphid and mite control later in the growing season. The use of synthetic sex pheromones for disruption of mating is targeted at adult moths instead of hatching larvae. Accurate prediction of the emergence of moths from the overwintering populations is critical to time CheckMate applications. The use of degree-day models, pheromone traps and field observations are helpful for detecting the earliest emergence of the overwintering generation. By preventing mating and subsequent egg laying, codling moth populations can be dramatically reduced to below economically damaging levels. In situations with high codling moth pressure (problem and organic orchards), pheromone mating disruption and an accurately timed insecticide spray or other approved treatments targeted at larval populations can be used together in an Integrated Pest Management strategy.
*Consult Cooperative extension recommendations for your area.

CODLING MOTH BIOLOGY*
Codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is a major pest of apple and pear. It will also attack walnut, prune, quince, hawthorn and some varieties of plums. Codling moth overwinters as a full grown larva in an inactive state called diapause. The larvae pupate inside cocoons in early spring. Shortly thereafter they emerge as moths. Male moths begin to appear in pheromone traps when temperatures are at least 55° F (13° C) at dusk. Mating does not occur until sunset temperatures reach 62° F (17° C) The moths are active a few hours before and after twilight. Overwintered females will lay 30 to 70 eggs singly on leaf surfaces or on tiny fruit. Eggs of the overwintered population hatch 3 to 5 days after being laid. Newly hatched larvae are pinkish white with a black head. They bore into fruit within 24 hours after hatching. First generation larvae require about 3 to 5 weeks to complete development and pupate. The average length of time for the overwintering generation to complete development and emerge as moths is 60 to 80 days. At least two generations of codling moth per year will occur in most regions. A third and even a partial fourth generation will occur in warmer areas.
*Integrated Pest Management for Apples and Pears, University of California, Publication 3340