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Oriental Fruit Moths: A Comprehensive Guide for Peach Growers
Introduction:
Oriental fruit moths are pesky insects that can wreak havoc on peach trees. They lay their eggs on the leaves and twigs of the tree, and the larvae hatch and feed on the fruit, causing damage and reducing yields. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to identify, control, and prevent oriental fruit moths in your peach trees.
Symptoms of Oriental Fruit Moths in Peaches:
- Tiny, disk-shaped eggs on twigs or leaf undersides
- White larvae with dark heads
- Larvae turn pinkish as they mature
- Larvae overwinter in cocoons
- Dieback and wilt of twigs in spring
- Masses of gummy castings or “frass” on developing fruit
- Tiny entry holes in peaches, especially at the top of the tree
How to Control Oriental Fruit Moths in Peaches:
- Early Cultivars: Plant peach tree varieties that ripen early in the season, before the peak of oriental fruit moth activity.
- Soil Cultivation: Cultivate the soil around peach trees in early spring to destroy overwintering larvae.
- Beneficial Insects: Plant blooming cover crops to attract beneficial insects, such as braconid wasps, which prey on oriental fruit moth larvae.
- Pheromone Dispensers: Hang pheromone dispensers from the lower limbs of trees in February and again 90 days later. These dispensers release a scent that disrupts mating and reduces the population of oriental fruit moths.
- Insecticides: Some insecticides, such as pyrethroids, can be used to control oriental fruit moths in home gardens. However, it is important to check with your local cooperative extension office to ensure that the insecticide you choose is safe for use on peach trees and does not harm beneficial insects.
How to Prevent Peaches with Oriental Fruit Moths:
- Remove Overwintering Larvae: Remove any fallen fruit, leaves, and other debris from around peach trees in the fall and winter to eliminate potential overwintering sites for larvae.
- Inspect Fruit Regularly: Inspect peaches regularly for signs of oriental fruit moth damage, such as tiny entry holes or frass. Remove any infested fruit immediately.
- Use Row Covers: Cover peach trees with row covers during the spring and early summer to prevent adult oriental fruit moths from laying eggs on the fruit.
- Keep Trees Healthy: Healthy trees are more resistant to pests and diseases, so it is important to provide your peach trees with proper care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pruning.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid using dormant oils to control oriental fruit moths in peaches, as they are not effective.
- Be cautious when using insecticides, as many are toxic to bees and other beneficial insects.
- Monitor your peach trees regularly for signs of oriental fruit moth activity and take appropriate action as needed.
By following these tips, you can effectively control and prevent oriental fruit moths in your peach trees and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, pest-free peaches.
