Fighting the Pear Moth (Zeuzera pyrina) on Pomegranates

The pear moth (Zeuzera pyrina) is a dreaded pest in pomegranate orchards in France. This wood-boring caterpillar damages branches and trunks, seriously compromising the productivity and survival of the trees. However, with integrated management combining monitoring, prevention, and appropriate treatments, growers can limit losses. And for irreparably damaged plants, commercial solutions exist to quickly replace affected trees.

Identification and life cycle of the pear moth

The pear moth is a nocturnal moth whose larvae cause the most significant damage. Understanding its life cycle is essential for effective action:

• Eggs: Females lay their eggs on the bark of trees or on main branches.
• Larvae: Upon hatching, the larvae infiltrate the wood and dig galleries, damaging the internal tissues.
• Pupation: The larvae transform into chrysalides to give birth to adults.
• Adults: These butterflies, active during the warm months, begin the cycle again by laying new eggs.

Damage caused by pear moth on pomegranate trees

• Mechanical weakening: The dug galleries weaken the branches, leading to breakages.
• Decreased fruit production: The weakened tree produces less fruit.
• Increased vulnerability: Open wounds make it easier for other parasites or diseases to enter.

Signs of infestation to watch for

Early detection is crucial to limit damage:

• Holes visible on the trunk or branches.
• Sawdust at the foot of the tree, a sign of larval activity.
• Weakened or broken branches.

Prevention of pear leaf blight

Regular monitoring

Inspect your trees frequently, especially during the warmer months, to spot the first signs.

Bush pruning

Favor bush pruning, which limits damage by keeping healthy branches for production.

Avoid injuries

Minimize injuries to trunks and branches, as these facilitate the entry of larvae.

Environmental planning

Encourage biodiversity by introducing hedges or grassy strips, reducing pressure from pests.

Biological control of pear leaf beetle

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)

• Use treatments like Delfin or Xentari, which specifically target larvae without harming the ecosystem.
• Apply these treatments during periods of larval activity for optimal effectiveness.

Pheromone trapping

Set traps to monitor adult moths and plan your interventions.

Encourage natural predators

Insectivorous birds, such as titmice, feed on the larvae. Encourage their presence with nest boxes.

Conventional control: A complementary option

Removal of infected parts

Prune and destroy infested branches to limit the spread.

Mechanical cleaning

Use tools to clean galleries and physically remove larvae.

Targeted chemical treatments

Apply authorized insecticides, respecting the recommended doses, to control larval populations.

Impact in France and importance of integrated management

The pear moth is one of the most damaging pests affecting pomegranate trees in France. Unlike other regions where species such as Virachola livia predominate, it poses a major threat. Integrated management, combining several strategies, is the best approach to minimize losses.

Business Solutions: Replace your affected plants with Grenadiverse

When pear leaf beetle infestations cause irreversible damage, replacing affected plants becomes essential to maintain production. This is where Grenadiverse comes in, your trusted partner for a supply of professional-quality pomegranate plants.

Why choose Grenadiverse?

• Pomegranates produced by specialist nurseries: Our plants are robust, healthy and adapted to local conditions.
• Competitive producer prices: Take advantage of decreasing prices according to your purchase volumes.
• Fast and careful delivery: Receive your plants directly on your plot within 15 days.
• Personalized technical advice: Benefit from the support of our pomegranate cultivation experts.
• Free and fast quote: Get a clear answer in less than 48 hours.

Order now and boost your pomegranate production with professional-quality plants!

FAQs

• What are the symptoms of a pear moth infestation? Symptoms include holes in the wood, sawdust at the base of the tree, and weakened branches.
• How can you prevent pear moth attacks? Monitor your trees regularly, avoid injury, and prune them into bushes.
• What biological treatments are available for Zeuzera? Treatments based on Bacillus thuringiensis, such as Xentari or Delfin, effectively target the larvae.
• How do pheromone traps help in the fight against Zeuzera? They allow you to monitor the presence of adults and identify periods of activity.
• Why replace severely affected plants? Irreversible damage compromises productivity. Replacing plants helps maintain the viability of your orchard.
• What are the benefits of ordering from Grenadiverse? Grenadiverse offers quality plants, competitive prices, and dedicated technical support to assist growers.