Pea Moth Caterpillar
We're well underway with harvesting our peas this year and only a couple of cases of pea moth (Cydia nigricana) so far.
The adult moths emerge in June/July and the females seek out pea plants in order to lay their eggs. They are attracted by the pea flower scent. The caterpillars hatch and bore into the developing pods and begin feeding on the peas. After feeding and growing, the caterpillars leave the pods and go into the soil to pupate. The cycle is ready to occur again next year.
Symptoms
Control
One or two caterpillars aren't a big problem, but if you have a bad case of pea moth this year you are likely to get it again next year. Due to the pupation cycle, planting peas as far away from this years' crop will reduce infestations, but obviously it won't prevent it - moths can fly!
The adult moths emerge in June/July and the females seek out pea plants in order to lay their eggs. They are attracted by the pea flower scent. The caterpillars hatch and bore into the developing pods and begin feeding on the peas. After feeding and growing, the caterpillars leave the pods and go into the soil to pupate. The cycle is ready to occur again next year.
Symptoms
- A cluster of 2 or 3 small eggs can be found near the flowers.
- You notice small holes, usually near the tops of the pods.
- You open a pod and find a small caterpillar inside feeding on the peas!
Control
- Discard any damaged pods.
- Cover plants with mesh or fleece early on before the pea moth arrives.
- Early or late sowing can help to avoid the main pea moth period.
- You can spray with pesticide if you are non-organic.
One or two caterpillars aren't a big problem, but if you have a bad case of pea moth this year you are likely to get it again next year. Due to the pupation cycle, planting peas as far away from this years' crop will reduce infestations, but obviously it won't prevent it - moths can fly!
Submitted by Tigger
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