The major cause of maggot damage to apples and pears is the caterpillar of the Codling Moth. Control of this pest in the garden is very difficult using insecticides unless they are applied shortly after egg-laying. The Codling Moth Trap uses the “Pheromone” scent of the female moth to attract and catch male moths. This provides a warning as to if and when control measures are needed.

When To Use The Trap

In most seasons moths fly and mate on warm nights from late May until the end of July, although in some years activity may continue until well into August, in this case a 3rd lure and sticky insert may be required. The trap should be placed in the garden soon after the middle of May. If spring weather is exceptionally warm, or in sheltered urban gardens, it may be an advantage to have the traps installed by early May. If in doubt, hang the trap after the petals begin to fall.

Area Covered

One trap should monitor up to 5 average size trees with a range of 15 metres (50 feet) of the trap. It should be hung at around head height on the windward side of the tree (or group of trees).