Join us for a discussion about Diamondback Moth (DBM), a significant pest of brassica, and what future options show promise for control of this species. In this webinar, we will explore the history of control options development for Codling Moth, a major pest of apples, assess lessons that can be applied to DBM in cole crops, and introduce novel practices and tools that show promise to growers.
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella), is a major pest for apple orchards, causing sting and deep entry fruit damage. Over the past few decades, significant research and intervention practices have been developed to successfully combat this pest, leveraging the unique biology and life cycle of this Lepidoptera species.
Diamondback Moth (Plutella xylostella), the single most damaging and problematic pest threatening California’s $1.4B cole crop industry. Serious damage occurs on crowns or growing points of young plants or Brussels sprouts, severely stunting growth. Caterpillars can bore into flower buds or broccoli and cauliflower heads, causing contamination and economic injury. Managing this pest has become increasingly challenging in many areas, and control options are limited due to increasing pesticide resistance and few novel pest control tools becoming available.
Dr. Matt Grieshop, Director of the Grimm Family Center for Organic Production and Research and entomologist, will present on using Codling Moth control development as a model for DBM control, identifying the barriers and challenges with these species and the role of biological programs to address these pests.
Dr. Ian Grettenberger, Assistant Specialist in CE Entomology at the University of California Davis and entomologist, will present on novel solutions to address DBM and the latest research on biocontrol, farming practices and pest control product development.