Mating Disruption for Codling Moth in Organic Apple Orchards

Mating disruption using pheromones is a residue-free, insect-friendly method for controlling codling moth (Cydia pomonella) in organic apple orchards. It involves continuous pheromone release during the moth’s flight period to prevent mating. Two dispenser types are used: aerosol (about 2 per hectare) and passive (500–1,000 per hectare). Dispensers must be installed just before flight begins, based on pheromone trap monitoring, and placed in the upper third of the canopy, with higher density at field edges. Performance is weather-dependent. Combined dispensers targeting both fruit peel and codling moth are available. Empty passive dispensers must be collected and disposed of at orchard renewal due to poor soil degradation. The method is most effective in large, contiguous orchards with low initial pest pressure and is a key component of integrated pest management in organic systems. Developed by FÖKO within the BIOFRUITNET project (2023), the tool is available in English (USA), German (Switzerland), and Danish. Hosted on Organic Eprints, it is categorised under pest and disease control, crop production, and weed management. Contact: niklas.oeser@esteburg.de.