Computer program combats pea moth
Computer program combats pea moth
A NEW computer prediction model should help growers combat pea moth this year. Unless insecticides are applied when caterpillars are exposed – between the time of hatching and entering the pea pods – control can be poor.
Growers of seed and human consumption peas can monitor adult moth activity through catches in OECOS pheromone traps and then, after reaching a threshold, calculate spray dates from their own daily maximum and minimum temperatures.
However, the PGRO now has a model to forecast the timing of pea moth sprays. Developed by ADAS Wolverhampton, the new program provides spray dates on a daily basis throughout the moth season. Regional forecasts will continue to be available on the 24-hour telephone information service provided by PGRO for all UK pea growing areas.n