Mating disruption of codling moth has mixed results

The success of pheromone confusion for codling moth control in some southern Joaquin Valley, CA, orchards was studied. When the orchard is young and damage history is low, mating disruption works well. When infestation and moth populations already are high, pheromone confusion must be supplemented with well-timed insecticide sprays. Treatment of first-generation worms is the most successful approach. Mating disruption can reduce the number of insecticide sprays needed and reduce exposure to pesticides, and therefore reduce resistance development.