Source: NCSU COOPERATIVE EXTENSIN, 7/21/22

European pepper moth (Duponchelia fovealis) is a major, yet largely unrecognized, pest of nursery and greenhouse crops. This exotic pest has spread rapidly through the Southeastern US since becoming established in 2010. European pepper moth has become widespread in NC and throughout the Southeast since then.

We have a grant from USDA via the NCDA&CS to begin understanding the biology and management of this pest. We have been conducting insecticide trials to determine which are most effective. In addition we are investigating application techniques. Since this pest lives primarily at the soil surface but can also move into foliage or into the soil it will be important to figure out the best way to apply insecticides. For example, a simple foliar application probably will not reach the larvae in their webbing on the soil surface.

Larvae may be able to escape drench applications to the soil by moving into the foliage. So far we are recommending 'sprench’ applications. In this procedure insecticide is applied to the foliage but with larger droplets and volume so some of it drips down to the soil.

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