Protecting Apple Orchards: Effective Strategies Against Codling Moth Infestations

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) -Mesa County is highlighting a pest that could turn your apple pie sour.

The Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District, CSU Tri-River Extension Office and Mesa County are working together to raise awareness of codling moths, which often appear in apple and pear orchards.

The codling moth, most commonly found in its larval form, tunnels through apples and renders them largely inedible.

Then larvae are light pink or white and appear the most during early summer.

One neglected orchard or someone failing to contribute impacts everyone," stated Jeff Pieper, a commercial horticulturist and natural resources specialist at Colorado State University. "The broader message here is that when individuals aren't participating, often these are homeowners who simply lack awareness.

According to Pieper, whether you're a homeowner or a grower, it's crucial to keep an eye on your fruit by using a pheromone trap to attract codling moths. If you have a moth problem, reduce fruit contact either by spacing them apart or by individually enclosing each piece of fruit in paper bags; this method helps coax the codling moth away from the affected fruit.