Ohio

Implementing IPM for Codling Moth and Red-Banded Leafrollers in Commercial Apple Orchards in East Central Ohio

Principal Investigators:

Mark Mechling, Extension Agent, Muskingum County
Celeste Welty, Extension Entomology

Abstract:

 Eight cooperating orchards in East Central Ohio utilized traps and pheromone lures in monitoring the levels of three important insect pests of apples - codling moth (CM), red-banded leafroller (RBLR), and apple maggot (AM). Cooperators measured activity levels every week from June to September and reported the results to the Muskingum County Extension Service via a weekly postcard.

Growers used established guidelines to determine if insect activity was at a high enough level to justify treatment. Growers received assistance and support from Extension personnel through a newsletter, personal consultations, a field meeting and educational materials. As a result of this project, growers gained more confidence and skill in determining insect activity levels through the use of these traps.

The three pests (CM, RBLR, and AM) being monitored are similar in appearance to some harmless insects found in the region and can be misidentified by growers. The cooperators received specimens of these insect pests provided by the Extension Entomologist so that the insects in the traps would be correctly identified.

Extension Program Implementation:

A ten issue newsletter produced by the East District Extension Agents in 1994 was sent to the cooperators as well as about fifty other fruit producers in the region. Sources for this periodical included articles from the OSU ICM newsletter and from other universities' fruit updates (Purdue, Kentucky, Cornell, and Penn State). Producers were kept up-to-date on topics such as label changes, current activity levels of fruit pests, proper application of pesticides, and recommended cultural practices.

A grower's meeting was held in July with about thirty in attendance. The Fruit Extension Entomologist and Pathologist both updated growers on the current pest activity levels. Demonstrations on insect identification and proper use of traps were included in this meeting.

Integrated pest management (IPM) served as the topic of a television show conducted by the agent on WHIZ in Zanesville. Topics included the principles of IPM, the different methods and instruments used to measure pest activity levels, and ways that IPM benefits both the consumer and producer. This IPM project has also been discussed with a variety of audiences, including area Master Gardeners, Extension advisory committee members, licensed pesticide applicators, and school children. Results will also be shared with fruit growers at the Eastern Ohio Fruit and Vegetable School in January, 1995.

For further information contact Mark Mechling , Extension Agent, Ohio State University Extension, Muskingum County or the Ohio IPM Office.

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