CODLING MOTH CONTROL

Opotiki News, Volume I, Issue 100, 21 October 1938, Page 3

CODLING MOTH CONTROL

BACKDOOR ORCHARDS SPRAYING IN GISBORNE It is estimated that many hundreds of cases ol' apples, and pears arc destroyed each year in Gisborne by the iruit being infected with the- grubs of the codling moth. This pest is -kept under control in the commercial orchards, and it can be similarly controlled in backyard and homestead orchards by giving the trees the necessary attention- “ Control measures are not complicated or difficult where spraying appliances are available, although- a number of spray applications are essential,” states MV. P. Everett, orchard instructor for the Gisborne district. “The grubs 'are prevented from entering the fruit by keeping the fruits covered with a poisonous substance, and as the fruit is rapidly expanding frequent applications of the poison are necessary. Arsenate of lead (powder) is universally used for this purpose, and a suitable strength is loz. to 4 gal. of water. “The first spray should bo applied when about one-half of the blossoms have dropped. The next two applications arc best made at not more than fortnightly intervals and thereafter at intervals of three weeks until early in February. This treatment, if thoroughly applied, will usually ensure fully 95 per cent, of the fruits being free from grubs.