Codling Moth

Cydia pomonella

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

-5 Pest

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastMidwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

orchardsgardens

Taxonomic Group

Moth

Order

Lepidoptera

Family

Tortricidae

Lifecycle

The codling moth overwinters as a full-grown larva in a silken cocoon under loose bark or in debris at the base of the tree. In early spring, the larva pupates and emerges as an adult moth from mid-March to April. After mating, the female lays 30 to 70 tiny, disc-shaped eggs on fruit, nuts, or leaves. Once hatched, the young larvae bore into the fruit or nut to feed on the core or kernel. After 3 to 5 weeks, the mature larvae exit the fruit to pupate, either by dropping to the ground or crawling up the tree. Depending on the climate, there can be two to four generations per year.

Overwintering Strategy

Overwinters as full-grown larvae within thick, silken cocoons under loose scales of bark and in soil or debris around the base of the tree.

Native Range

Eurasia

Attracted By

applespearsEnglish walnutscrabapplesquincelarge-fruited hawthorn

Repelled By

lavendernasturtiumparsnipborageyarrowartemisiamarigoldchivesmintgarlictansy

Organic Control Methods

Organic control of codling moths involves a multi-faceted approach. Sanitation is crucial; promptly remove and destroy any infested fruit from the tree and the ground to prevent larvae from completing their life cycle. Bagging individual fruits four to six weeks after bloom can provide a physical barrier. Trunk banding with corrugated cardboard in early summer can trap larvae as they move to pupate; these bands should be removed and destroyed regularly. For more active control, sprays of kaolin clay create a barrier film that deters egg-laying. Biological insecticides such as Spinosad and Cyd-X (a granulosis virus specific to codling moth) are effective when timed correctly with egg hatches.

Companion Planting

Companion planting with aromatic herbs such as lavender, mint, and chives can help deter codling moths by confusing them with strong scents. Nasturtiums are also known to be a powerful deterrent. Planting these near susceptible fruit trees can be an effective part of an integrated pest management strategy.