Control Natural control Birds are important predators of hibernating larvae that are under loose bark. Parasites can attack eggs and larvae of the developing codling moth. Remove and destroy the strips after cocoons are formed. Before the bands are attached, the bark should be scraped to remove loose pieces that would prevent a tight fit by the strips. Repeated applications of insecticide every 10 to 14 days are usually needed from petal-fall to near harvest.
Sprays are most effective when applied just before newly hatched larvae attempt to enter the apples.
If you are using a pheromone trap to monitor codling moth, the best time to spray is two weeks after the first moth catch or one week after a peak catch. For more information on fruit pests, obtain a copy of Bulletin 780, Controlling Diseases and Insects in Home Fruit Plantings, and Bulletin 591, Growing and Using Fruit at Home, from your County Extension Office. Commercial growers should refer to Bulletin 506A2, Ohio Commercial Tree Fruit Spray Guide and Bulletin 506-B2, Ohio Commercial Small Fruit and Grape Spray Guide. The author gratefully acknowledges Richard L. Miller and Alan W. Smith for authoring the 1988 version on which this fact sheet is based. Disclaimer - This publication contains pesticide recommendations that are subject to change at any time.