An evaluation of a phenological model (PETE) to assist insect pest control in apple orchards in Canterbury, New Zealand

Abstract An evaluation was conducted of a model (PETE) for predicting the phenology of codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) and the lightbrown apple moth (Epiphyas postvittana (Walker)) in apple orchards in Canterbury, New Zealand. Validation data consisted of adult flights recorded with pheromone traps for codling moth, and bait trap catches and the occurrence of eggs and larvae recorded by destructive sampling of apple tree clusters for lightbrown apple moth. Key events in the life history of both pests occurred over extended periods because of mild winters affecting diapause termination for codling moth and the complete absence of diapause by the lightbrown apple moth. The model was able to reflect observed pest phenology but some problems were encountered and these are discussed.