The codling moth is alive and well in Prince George, each year destroying more of our apples, pears and crab apples. This moth is a very invasive species.
The adult emerges from its cocoon in the spring after the trees have bloomed. They mate in the trees and lay eggs on or near emerging fruit, the eggs hatch and the larva (caterpillar) then eat into the core, leaving a trail of feces behind.
They feast on the seeds and when ready to become a moth, leave the fruit, spin a cocoon, usually up under the bark, pupate, then emerge as a moth and begin the cycle again. The apples are left inedible.
If you think you have this problem in our backyard trees, go to www.oksir.org to find out what you can do to manage this pest and how to destroy the damaged fruit.
Fern Hawke
Prince George
