Oriental Fruit Moth
(Grapholita molesta)

Fully grown larvae overwinter in silk cocoons on tree limbs or in ground clutter near the base of trees. Overwintering larvae pupate within their silken cocoons on or near the base of trees. Adult moths’ emergence timing depends on temperature and climate. The first generation typically emerges from February to March. Moths typically fly in the evening hours but may also be active during sunrise. Adults lay eggs on the top side of leaves. Mating disruption for oriental fruit moth needs to be applied to orchards before adults emerge to successfully prevent mating and decrease pest pressure in subsequent generations. Growers should typically apply oriental fruit moth mating disruption dispensers before bloom.

Oriental fruit moth may see up to five or six generations a year, depending on the local climate. The first two generations typically bore into tree shoots, causing their characteristic flagging. The following generations feed on shoot terminals and fruit. Larvae typically bore into the stem end of the fruit and feed around the fruit’s pit until they are ready to pupate.

Delta traps should be hung 5 feet off the ground and baited with an oriental fruit moth lure. A BioFix should be set once a trap has captured an oriental fruit moth for two consecutive weeks. This BioFix is created based on how many degree days were accumulated using a temperature base of 45°F. Second generation oriental fruit moth typically flies between 920 to 1,010 DD45. Monitoring traps should be used throughout the entire growing season to determine the best timing of insecticide use. Degree-day models can help predict moth flight in your orchards (see links below).