Monitoring codling and tortrix moths in United Kingdom apple orchards using pheromone traps

Abstract

SUMMARY Studies of pheromone traps for Cydia pomonella, A rchips podana and A doxophyes or ana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) were made in United Kingdom apple orchards from 1974 to 1976. Compared with light traps, they proved easier to operate and, with the exception of those set for Adoxophyes orana , were more effective monitors. There was considerable site‐to‐site variation in the pattern of weekly catches, and in total catches for each season, such variability often masking inter‐regional differences. The data proved useful for deciding if and when sprays should be applied in individual orchards, and were also used as a basis for district spray warnings. Thresholds below which treatment was generally unnecessary were five moths/trap/ wk for C. pomonella and 20 moths/trap/wk for Archips podana , but results for Adoxophyes orana were inconclusive. Fruit damage in monitored orchards sprayed as advised was generally low.