Abstract
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella) is the primary pest in organic fruit growing. It damages apple, pear, quince, ro-wan, medlar, walnut and kaki (photo AD). Genera-tions/years vary depending on the soil and climates zones. Solution Several control methods can be applied in organic farming depending on the infection rate, but plant protection products and mating disruption are the most common. Benefits Choosing suitable methods may reduce the time for intervention in the field. In the following season, precautionary measures can significantly reduce the spread of this pest. Practical recommendation • Precautionary measures: Remove woodpiles from the orchard and the affected fruit during thinning. • Mating disruption with pheromone dispensers (passive dispensers and aerosols: Effective if used on a large scale and if the impact of the attack is limited. It is recommended to combine with other measures. Monitor the presence of the pest with traps set up in the orchard (Picture F) (Practice abstract coming soon). • Granulosis virus (CpGV): Generally effective when the attack is mild and not sufficient to contain spreading in the case of stronger attacks. Treatments are best conducted during the twilight hours (Weblink 6) • Spinosine: The most effective plant protection product available. It can be applied a maximum three times per year (Practice abstract coming soon). • Alt'Carpo nets: Involves netting the plants with a mesh tighter than the average anti-hail nets. The netting can be done using a single-plot or single-row system. It is the most effective method to prevent adults from fleeing (Picture E). • Entomopathogenic nematodes of the species Steinernema feltiae can parasitise codling moth larvae during the overwintering phase with an efficiency of up to 50%. Apply entomopathogenic nematodes with a high-water supply and high moisture content and a temperature (during treatment and the following 3 hours) of at least 10°C. On the day of treatment, the minimum temperature must not go below 0°C (Practice abstract coming soon).